Granby Drummer | September 2019 by Granby Drummer

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Volume L, No. 1 • September 2019

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Board of Education seeks input for superintendent search The Granby Board of Education is seeking community input in its search for a new Superintendent of Schools. An online survey will be available from Aug. 22 through Sept. 6 at surveymonkey.com/r/M9328XM or on the front page of the district website at granby.k12.ct.us Participants will be asked about the qualities and characteristics that they think are most important for the superintendent and asked to identify what they see as the greatest challenges for the next school district leader. All comments from the survey are considered anonymous. Additionally, a focus group (at which similar questions will be asked) will be

held for parents and the community on Wednesday, Sept. 4 from 6:30–8 p.m. in the high school media center. Input from the survey and focus groups will be organized by NESDEC into categories and groups (for example: administrators, staff, parents, community members, students, etc.) and will be used to create a Candidate Profile that will guide the board in its selection of the next superintendent. The Granby Board of Education appreciates and values the public’s involvement in the Superintendent Search process. The board hopes for wide participation in this outreach effort and looks forward to hearing community members’ views.

Public lottery for horizontal ballot order on Sept. 11 On Sept. 11 there will be a lottery to determine the horizontal ballot order of the candidates for Board of Selectman, Board of Finance, Board of Education, Planning and Zoning Commission and the Zoning Board of Appeals. The lottery will be held at 11 a.m. in the Town Hall meeting room and is open to the public. There is no primary in September. Nov. 5 is Election Day. The 2019 municipal ballot will have openings on

11 different boards and offices with 28 candidates running, including for Board of Selectmen and Board of Education seats. Both major party slates were unanimously approved at July caucuses, and no one contested the party nominations by petition, Granby will not have a primary. Two people petitioned to be added to the ballot without a party designation. See ballot on p. 7

Registrar cont’d. on p. 7

Celebrate 150 years of the Granby Library Association By Joan Russell, GLA president The Granby Library Association invites you and your family to its 150th anniversary celebration at the Granby Public Library on Oct. 5, 11 a.m. to noon. Along with light refreshments and musical entertainment by the Marquis of Granby Fyfe and Drum Corps, we will bury a time capsule in the side yard and will need your help. The capsule will have room for 150 note cards—we hope you will stop by the library to jot down a few of your

favorite things about the library and perhaps your favorite book or author. The short forms are available at the front desk. The capsule is scheduled to be opened in 2069 and we would like those future Granby citizens to know how important the libraries are to us today. Patrons of all ages are encouraged to help us commemorate a century and a half of the GLA’s support for Granby’s public libraries. Please see Carol Laun’s article (p. 18) for details of the GLA’s long history. We look forward to seeing you on Oct. 5.

Inside The Snout House.............. 17

Climbing Mt. Washington... 23

Library Assoc. turns 150..... 18

Waypoints....................... 27

Marquis of Granby perform in parade celebrating 325th anniversary of Kingston, N.H. Photo by Courtney Landheer

Gathering of music, pageantry to fete the Marquis 50th anniversary on the town green, and at other special events. The corps is comprised of kids This autumn the Marquis of Granby from Granby and surrounding towns, Junior Ancient Fyfe and Drum Corps who have carried the torch for 50 years. will celebrate its 50th anniversary. For In addition to teaching young kids those who don’t know, the how to play the fife or Marquis is a fife and drum drum, and educating corps that was founded in them on American hisGranby for the purpose Marquis of Granby tory, Marquis provides its of preserving our nation’s Muster Weekend members with discipline, history and entertaining a sense of respect, and the Sept. 21-22 the public with instruconfidence to become a mental songs from the East Granby Farms leader. Supporting MarRevolutionary War era. It quis means supporting is one of the largest youth Granby youth—so please fife and drum corps in America. come out to the event. Marquis is an integral part of Granby Every five years, we host a muster, culture – you may have seen us perform which is a public showcase, to comin the Granby Memorial Day parade, memorate the founding of the corps.

By Rebecca Rose Kaczmarek

Marquis 50 cont’d. on p. 8

Granby Agricultural Commission hosts 8th annual Open Farm Day By Rachel Primmer The Granby Agricultural Commission is sponsoring a free Open Farm Day on Saturday, Sept. 14, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Open Farm Day is a day of fall farm fun for ages one to one hundred. Go farmhopping at over a dozen farms in Granby to see a Sepe Farm sheep be shorn, how Sweet Pea Farm turns milk into cheese and taste a new Lost Acres Vineyard wine or a beer from The Brewery at Maple View Farm. Farmers will open their gates to host demos, tours, tastings, tractor rides and more at this one-of-a-

kind, hands-on, educational experience. An annual tradition, Open Farm Day is a unique opportunity to discover what goes on behind the scenes at a diverse selection of farms, all in Granby. Returning Farm Day goers will be pleased to find old favorites, such as wagon rides through Lost Acres Orchard, garden tours at O’Brien Nursery, garlic sampling at the Garlic Farm, soapmaking demos at Lyric Hill Farm and Pony Club pony rides at Lost Acres Vineyard. Open Farm Day is your chance to meet

Open Farm Day cont’d. on p. 10

Photo by Peter Dinella

Page 2 The Granby Drummer

September 2019

TOWN OF GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES — JUNE 17, 2019 The regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was called to order by First Selectman B. Scott Kuhnly at 7 p.m. Present: B. Scott Kuhnly, Sally King, Mark Neumann, and Edward Ohannessian Public Session Granby resident Bill Scheel asked what rules apply to recording any meeting. First Selectman Kuhnly indicated the Town Manager’s office would be a better place to have that question answered. Minutes On a motion by Sally King, seconded by Mark Neumann, the board voted 3-0-1 (abstention Ed Ohannessian), to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of June 3, 2019. Business Vacancies: Commission on Aging (1); Conservation Commission (1); Planning and Zoning (1). Plan of Conservation and Development Implementation Committee Report Presentation Committee Chairman Martin Schwager gave selectmen a brief overview of background information to forming the committee. Connecticut General Statutes requires the preparation and adoption of a Plan of Conservation and Development at least once every ten years. Granby’s Plan of Conservation and Development was adopted on September 27, 2016, and became effective October 17, 2016. The committee members were appointed September 4, 2018. Members are: Margaret Chapple, Planning and Zoning Commission; Peter Jalbert, Conservation Commission; James Lofink, Granby Selectman; Eric Myers, Planning and Zoning Commission; Martin Schwager, Development Commission, and Virginia Wutka, Granby business owner. Committee members were to prioritize goals, identify the primary parties necessary in achieving those goals and develop strategies for implementation. The committee met 10 times over a period of six months reviewing goals and tasks outlined in the plan, assigning a lead entity for each task and determining priorities. Members presented to the

selectmen their Plan of Conservation and Development Implementation for their review. Kuhnly asked how they put everything together and it was indicated that they prioritized, a., b., c., etc. They felt the committee was a good cross section of people to come to priorities. Overall, it was felt the town is on the right track. King indicated the plan is well thought out, organized, and contains a lot of detail. Ohannessian asked if there were any hot issues and how they dealt with them. The response was they asked Director of Community Development Abby Kenyon to provide information to help them work it out. Kuhnly thanked the committee members for their hard work in putting the report together. Consideration of Capital Lease Purchase Program for 2018-19 The 2018-19 Town Budget included approval for lease purchase of technology equipment and used school buses as recommended by the Board of Education for small capital purchases. The municipal capital plan for 2018-19 included the purchase of a large dump truck body, medium duty dump truck, pickup trucks, truck sander upgrades, senior van, mower with rotary cutter and a wash bay system. The Board of Finance recommends a lease program to spread purchase costs over several years. Simsbury Bank has a favorable rate of no more than 2.8 percent for a 4.5year lease agreement. In addition to the small capital lease agreement, the town is asking for approval for a two-year lease program through the Q & D fund for the Board of Education’s one-to-one computing program for the purchase of Chromebooks for students in the amount of $67,500 at a rate of no more than 2.49 percent. Simsbury Bank is recommended for both leases. On a motion by Neumann, seconded by King, the board voted unanimously (4-0-0) to adopt the resolution below: Whereas, the Town of Granby has entered or is entering into Equipment Lease/Purchase Agreements (“Promissory

Note”) and Loan Agreements in an amount up to $677,000 for 4.5 years and $67,500 for two years with The Simsbury Bank and Trust Company; Now therefore be it resolved, that these agreements are hereby approved, and that the action of the official of the Town of Granby in signing these agreements on behalf of it be, and is hereby, ratified, confirmed, and approved; and Be it further resolved, that the Town Manager of the Town of Granby, be, and is hereby authorized, empowered, and directed to sign on its behalf the agreements and any addenda, schedules, notes, UCC financing statements, or other instruments issued under the provisions of the agreement, and any other instruments or documents which may be necessary or expedient in connection with agreements upon or in fulfillment of the provisions of the agreements. Consideration of Proposals for Connecticut Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit Program One application has been received from Foxfield F.A.R.M (For a Recovery Mission). This is to subsidize program costs of the six-week training course offered to U.S. Veterans and First Responders with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). On a motion by King, seconded by Ohannessian, the board voted unanimously (4-0-0) to approve the application received at the public hearing and forward for submission to the Department of Revenue Services. Consideration of Establishing a Town Bridges Building Committee On a motion by Ohannessian, seconded by King, the board voted unanimously (4-0-0) to approve the creation of a three-member building committee to be known as the Town Bridges Building Committee. The Charge: The committee shall examine the concepts and information pertaining to the proposed bridge projects; interview and recommend for signing by the Town Manager necessary

consultant service contracts to complete the project; prepare necessary documents and advertise for the construction of the Moosehorn Road, Simsbury Road, Donahue Road, Griffin Road, and Hungary Road bridges. Upon substantial completion, report to the Board of Selectmen, and other town agencies as necessary, concerning the timetable and progress of the various bridge projects approved on June 4, 2019. Consideration of Establishing a School Projects Building Committee On a motion by Neumann, seconded by Ohannessian, the Board voted unanimously (4-0-0) to approve the creation of a five-member building committee known as the School Projects Building Committee. The Charge: the committee shall examine recent Board of Education concepts and information pertaining to the proposed school projects; interview and recommend for signing by the Town Manager necessary consultant service contracts to complete the school projects; prepare necessary documents and advertise for the construction of the various school projects. Upon substantial completion, report to the Board of Selectmen when the projects may be turned over to the Board of Education for use. Report to the Board of Selectmen and to the Board of Education, and other town agencies as necessary, concerning the timetable and progress of the various school projects approved on June 4, 2019. Consideration of Establishing a Solar Project Building Committee On a motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted unanimously (4-0-0) to approve the creation of a five-member building committee known as the Solar Project Building Committee. The charge: the committee shall examine recent Board of Education concepts and information pertaining to the proposed solar project; interview and recommend for signing by the Town Manager necessary consultant service contracts to complete the solar project; prepare necessary documents and advertise for the construction of the Solar Project. Upon substantial completion, report to the Board of Selectmen when the project may be turned over to the Board of Education for use. Report to the Board of Selectmen and to the Board of Education, and other town agencies as necessary, concerning the timetable and progress of the solar project approved on June 4, 2019. Executive Session a. Pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes 1-200(6) (D), the Board of Selectmen motion to enter into Executive Session to discuss real estate. Town Manager John D. Ward is invited to attend. b. Pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes 1-200(6) (D), the Board of Selectmen motion to enter into Executive Session to discuss collective bargaining. Town Manager John D. Ward is invited to attend. c. Pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes 1-200(6) (D), the Board of Selectmen motion to enter into Executive Session to discuss a personnel matter. Town Manager John D. Ward is invited to attend. On a motion by Ohannessian, seconded by Neumann, the Board voted unanimously (4-0-0) to postpone Executive Session a, b., and c. to a later date. Town Manager Reports Budget Operations Barbarajean Scibelli, administration finance officer, reviewed the budget operations for May 2019. Tax collections are at 102 percent. $337,000 more in tax revenue has been taken in during the budget process. Overall, the revenue picture is very favorable, at $1.7M more than budgeted. Building Inspection, General and Equipment Maintenance, and Infrastructure Maintenance had transfers approved at the last meeting. The rest of the expense accounts look good. At least $75,000 will be turned in at the end of the fiscal year. Department of Transportation’s Presentation on Tolls The governor has provided us with a congestion mitigation proposal to rebuild our highway infrastructure and reduce traffic congestion. First Selectman Reports (B. Scott Kuhnly) First Selectman Kuhnly reported there is no Koffee with Kuhnly scheduled for this month. The next one will be announced at a later date. He thanked Sera Tickey and James Kuhnly for their participation as Board of Selectmen Student Liaisons this past year.

September 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 3

TOWN OF GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES — JULY 15, 2019 Present: B. Scott Kuhnly, Sally King, James Lofink, Mark Neumann, and Edward Ohannessian Public Session Granby resident Elizabeth Hardersen, 41 Twilight Drive, addressed the board with concerns of residents feeding bears in their yards. She presented to the board a proposed ordinance that came from another town, in hopes it could be a guide for Granby. She is hoping to make this a safer town for everyone. Heather Kelly, 291 Mountain Road, does not have a problem with bears but is aware of others on Mountain Road who are feeding bears. Karen O’Neill, Salmon Brook Street, sees bears regularly. Just use good common sense. William Regan, 62 Hungary Road, has previously requested the “Packets” that are distributed to the BOS and are part of the meeting be made available to the public online prior to the meeting. He was not happy with the response that the town did not have the staff necessary for this at this time. He also feels a bear ordinance is just another government intrusion. Sarah Ryan, 15 Halwood Drive, would like to see bearproof trash cans. Daniel Kaizer, 36 Mountain Road, is against bear feeding and baiting.

Ken Santos, 9 Orchard Hill Road, is concerned about small dogs around roaming bears. He sees kids waiting for the school bus and is afraid they may be seen as a source of food. A resident on Silver Street is in support of an ordinance. School buses dropping off children when there is a bear in sight is a problem. Susan Regan, 62 Hungary Road, is concerned a nofeeding bear ordinance would not be followed. She stated people don’t follow the dog leash ordinance. Tell neighbors to work it out. Take responsibility. Another Orchard Hill Road resident has chased bears with his Jeep and shot at them with buckshot to get them to leave, as recommended by DEEP. It was noted that this problem has been addressed by Animal Control Officer, police, and DEEP and yet, people continue to feed bears. First Selectman Kuhnly responded he is not a fan of bears. He personally has had goats killed by bears. He’s not sure what’s the best answer going forward. Minutes On a motion by Selectman Neumann, seconded by Selectman King, the board voted unanimously (5-0-0) to add agenda item V.B Hartford Foundation (see below). Approval of Public Hearing Meeting Minutes of June 17 and Regular Meeting Minutes of June 17.

On a motion by Selectman King, seconded by Selectman Neumann, the board voted 4-0-1 (abstention Selectman Lofink), to approve the minutes of the public hearing of June 17. On a motion by Selectman King, seconded by Selectman Neumann, the board voted 4-0-1 (abstention Selectman Lofink), to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of June 17. Business Resignations and appointments to be considered On a motion by Selectman Neumann, seconded by Selectman King, the board voted unanimously (5-0-0) to accept, with regret, the resignation of Charles Kraiza from the Planning and Zoning Commission. On a motion by Selectman Neumann, seconded by Selectman King, the board voted unanimously (5-0-0) to approve the appointment of Mark Lockwood (R), 15 Heather Lane, North Granby to fill this vacancy on the Planning and Zoning Commission through November 19. Discussion of Hartford Foundation Community Fund Selection Committee Abby Kenyon, director of community development, addressed the board with information on the establishment of a community fund set up by the Hartford Foundation for each of the 29 communities in the Hartford region. Each

community will be given $100,000. Half of this amount, $50,000, will be placed in an endowment and $50,000 will be available for immediate use. The Hartford Foundation is seeking recommendations for people to serve on the Selection Committee. Any person who serves on the Selection Committee will not be able to serve on the initial advisory committee and elected officials will not be able to serve on the selection or advisory committee. The Hartford Foundation will review all recommendations and will make a list of people to invite to regional meetings this fall in order to establish an advisory committee. Kenyon -requested the board send her a list of names and she will forward this information to the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving. Names must be submitted to the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving by July 24. Town Manager Reports First Selectman Kuhnly reported the Town Manager is home resting and will return to the office as soon as he can. First Selectman Reports, B. Scott Kuhnly First Selectman Kuhnly reported the Granby Bluegrass Brews and BBQ Festival was a very successful event. Thank you to Director of Recreation and Leisure Services Kristine Vincent and Director of Public Works Kirk Severance and their staffs for all the work they did to make this happen.

TOWN OF GRANBY PLANNING & ZONING MINUTES — JULY 9, 2019 Present: Paula Johnson (Chairman), Jonathan Boardman, Christine Chinni, Eric Lukingbeal, Eric Myers, James Sansone and Brennan Sheahan. Also present was Abby Kenyon, Director of Community Development. Seating of alternates: Christine Chinni and Brennan Sheahan were seated Public Session – Items not on the agenda Michael Fitzgerald, 25 Strawberry Fields, addressed the commission. Fitzgerald expressed concerns about 29 Bushy Hill Road, Clark Farms. P. Johnson stated the application for 29 Bushy Hill Road will be heard at the Commission’s next meeting. As the public hearing has not yet opened and the applicant is not present, no comments pertaining to the application are to be made at this time. Fitzgerald stated his comments are in regards to the Planning and Zoning Commission’s approval for a Special Permit modification granted on June 11, permitting Clark Farms to sell hard cider and wine. He went on to state homes in close proximity to the orchard will be affected by increased traffic and noise, which is contrary to the residential zone; the use will have a negative impact on the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone; many neighbors contributed financially to purchase development rights and therefore have collective ownership; that the farm is going beyond basic farming; and the process was not transparent and adequate notice was not given. He believes the Planning and Zoning Commission did not ask enough relevant questions about safety issues, traffic, parking, excessive alcohol consumption, and manufacturing machinery. Fitzgerald would like to read the business plan for the farm and requests the commission rescind their decision of approving the modification of the Special Permit. Action on the minutes of June 11 On a motion by James Sansone seconded by Eric Lukingbeal the commission voted (5-0-2) to approve the minutes of June 11. Sheahan and Chinni abstained. Public Hearing Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Sections 3.5.2.10 and 8.21.4 for personal service in the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone, massage center, for property located at 345 Salmon Brook Street. The applicant, Raymond Huk, business manager of Happy Fingers Bodyworks, 345 Salmon Brook Street, addressed the commission along with business owner, Meng Wen Tang and a translator. The applicant proposes to open an aromatherapy massage business in the space formerly occupied by a game store. Huk explained this is an opportunity to be one of the

first in the area to offer Chinese-culture related techniques that are difficult to find in western massage studios. In addition, the sale of aromatherapy oils will be offered. He explained Meng Wen Tang has a 400-hour training certificate in aromatherapy massage and several direct detoxification training certificates. The Commission questioned the training certificate that was provided and asked if other licenses are required for an aromatherapy massage business. It was noted the property is also located in the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone; the use does not conflict with the provisions of the aquifer protection overlay zone regulations. Kenyon stated no permitting or inspections are required from the Farmington Valley Health District. However building and sign permits would be needed. Kenyon said the building is mixed use, with commercial space on the first floor and a residential unit on the second floor. The proposed massage space is 900 square feet with a separate 420 square foot area consisting of storage and office space. There are 21 parking spaces on-site with additional room for parking adjacent to a separate commercial building. In response to a question about hours of operation, Huk stated the majority of business will be scheduled appointments with hours of operation from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The Commission questioned the hours and interior remodeling that would be needed. Huk explained the majority of clients work 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and offering later evening appointments captures this clientele after work. The space will be divided into a reception area, space for foot massages, and three private massage rooms. There was discussion of the exterior lighting and signage. Kenyon noted that any modifications to lighting would have to come back to the Commission for site plan review. Kenyon will investigate possible state licensing requirements for this type of business. The Commission has 65 days to render its decision. Application seeking to renew a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 9 for earth excavation for Tilcon, Inc., for property located at 536 Salmon Brook Street. Applicant, Kevin Johnson, Close, Jensen and Miller, P.C., addressed the commission. He presented a site plan for 536 Salmon Brook Street, noting stock pile locations, site access and proposed grading plan. The applicant comes before the commission every two years for renewal of the Special Permit as required by the previous approvals; the permit was last renewed in July of 2017 subject to a renewal of the bond and an update to the site map. The bond and map have been updated as required. Kenyon noted she met on-site with the

applicant and the site appears to operate in accordance with the approved plan. Johnson stated that, Kevin Clark, town engineer, also reviewed the application and requested two minor adjustments, both of which have been resolved by the applicant. In response to a question about the future use of the property, Johnson stated a future residential use may be most likely. It was also noted most of the land that has been excavated has been reclaimed and they do not excavate below the water table. Christopher Costello, an employee of Tilcon, addressed a question raised by a member of the public regarding the life expectancy of this site. He stated that most of the sand goes to concrete making in East Granby with no end in sight. The Commission has 65 days to render its decision. Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.5 for an accessory apartment for property located at 25 Notch Road. James Grogan addressed the commission. He seeks a Special Permit for an attached accessory apartment at 25 Notch Road. He stated this apartment had been added by the previous property owner without the town’s knowledge. The apartment is located to the rear of the home, above the attached garage and is 660 square feet with its own deck and outside entrance, kitchen and bathroom. The applicant stated he received approval from the Farmington Valley Health District and the apartment has been inspected by the building official. Kenyon noted the accessory apartment complies with Section 8.5 and the Special Permit will run with the property. The public hearing closed at 7:49 PM. The Commission has 65 days to render its decision. Receive application and set public hearing Application seeking to modify a Special Permit for an existing farm store under Zoning Regulations Section 8.15.17 to allow special events for property located at 29 Bushy Hill Road. The above application has been scheduled for public hearing on July 23. Consideration of the above applications where the commission has concluded the public hearing

An application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Sections 3.5.2.10 and 8.21.4 personal service in the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone, massage center, for property located at 345 Salmon Brook Street. Jonathan Boardman recused himself. The commission agreed it would be good to see this building go to better use than its current state and it was noted this business would not have a negative impact on the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone. The site is located adjacent to Salmon Brook Street and there is adequate parking for the use. However, there are outstanding questions with regards to licensing for this business and a floor plan is needed. Consideration of the application will be continued to the July 23 meeting. Application seeking to renew a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 9 for earth excavation for Tilcon, Inc., for property located at 536 Salmon Brook Street. File Z-8-19 ON A MOTION by Eric Myers seconded by Christine Chinni, the commission voted to approve the renewal of a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 9 for earth excavation for Tilcon, Inc., for property located at 536 Salmon Brook Street. (6-0-0) Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.5 for an accessory apartment for property located at 25 Notch Road. ON A MOTION by Myers seconded by Boardman the commission voted to approve a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.5 for an accessory apartment for property located at 25 Notch Road. (7-0-0) Staff Reports and Correspondence Kenyon said the drive-thru regulation has been drafted and maps have been completed showing possible locations for a drive-thru establishment based on the draft regulation. This will be discussed in September. Commissioner Reports and Correspondence Paula Johnson announced that Charles Kraiza has resigned from the commission. Patricia Tappenden, Recording Secretary

CBG presents Drummer scholarship Kathy Norris, president of the Citizens for a Better Granby, presents 2019 GMHS graduate Kathryn Hosack with the Granby Drummer scholarship. The award is given yearly to a Granby graduate. Kathryn will attend Northeastern University and pursue a combined bachelor’s degree program in biology and political science. Photo by Lew Noble

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Page 4 The Granby Drummer

Drumbeat Letters to the Editor Granby people celebrated

Granby celebrated, for different reasons, the departure of a number of unique people and/or institutions who have enriched the town over recent years and who can be emulated but never replaced. Permit me to acknowledge them. Bobbie Sullivan Bobbie and husband Bruce arrived in Granby to produce and bring up kids in the early 1960s. Bobbie quickly earned the reputation as that nice young woman who always had the time to help others or to volunteer for “whatever.” She also “adopted” the Cossitt Library and could be seen quietly making things happen at the periodic book sales and other Cossitt events in North Granby. Bobbie recently lost a twenty-plus year fight with cancer. Mike and Mary Keating Also known by their synonym as “Granby Pharmacy,” Mike and Mary ran their business and run their lives in ways that convince those who appreciate living in small towns. Generous to a fault with both their time and treasure, they are supporters of most Granby activities of value. It was nice to know that whatever one put in the “notary” jar to acknowledge a service would find its way to a deserving local recipient. The Granby Pharmacy was a local institution. The Keatings have retired to a welldeserved time to smell the roses! Alan Addley I’m certain that those in town without a direct connection with the schools must

September 2019

editorials, commentary & letters to the editor Unsigned editorials are the consensus opinion of the editorial staff and publisher. Commentary pieces express the opinion of the writer and not necessarily the opinion of the Drummer.

have appreciated our former superintendent’s efforts to improve the schools while doing so in a financially conservative fashion. In this writer’s opinion, Alan’s connection with people—his students, staff, and the public in general was more valuable. During his tenure as our high school principal, each student received a Happy Birthday phone call on the appropriate day. He was happiest when involved with projects intended to improve programs and student outcomes or helping to extend a staff member’s career. We were fortunate to have Alan for over two decades. Darien’s gain is our loss. Cal Heminway

Thanks for puzzle sale support

On behalf of The Friends of Cossitt Library, thank you for supporting the jigsaw puzzle sale that was held earlier this summer at Cossitt Library. The puzzle sale was started several years ago by the late Bobbie Sullivan and we are happy to continue the tradition. The summer sale was very successful, enabling us to support future public educational programs held at Cossitt. Thank you to those people who donated new and gently used puzzles and, of course, to those people who purchased them. Special appreciation and thanks go to library staff members Karen, Deb and Lynn for their guidance and help. Watch for an announcement of another jigsaw puzzle sale in time for the winter holidays. Carol Bressor

Cemetery manners, please

Something new has been happening at our lovely Granby cemetery this summer. People are deadheading their flowers and pulling yellowed leaves and weeds and leaving them under the water spigots. Also, someone decided that they no longer wanted their holiday container and a potted plant, and left them alongside the driveway. Really? You think the cemetery groundskeepers should be responsible for taking away your discards? This action is similar to those who get their dog waste into a plastic bag, but then leave the bag at the side of the road for someone else to pick up. Where this kind of entitlement behavior comes from, I cannot imagine. Please, folks, pick up after yourselves. Your mothers are no doubt rolling over in their graves. Shirley Murtha

The Granby Drummer A volunteer, non-profit publication established in 1970. The Granby Drummer (ISSN 1547-1497) is published monthly except January and August by Citizens for a Better Granby at 11 North Granby Road, Granby, CT 06035. It’s delivered free of charge to all Granby households and businesses. Out-of-town subscriptions are $25 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Granby, CT, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE GRANBY DRUMMER P.O. Box 165 Granby, CT 06035-0165 Copyright ©2019 Citizens for a Better Granby, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization all rights reserved. CBG Board Kathy Norris, President David Tolli, Vice President Roger Hayes, Treasurer Becky Mikus, Secretary

GRANBY FOOD BANK

Flo Bischoff, Carol Bressor, Karen Cleary, Sam Mikus, Lew Noble Staff

We currently need: Canned FRUIT —all kinds Saltine/Ritz crackers Pasta sauce Rice mixes Beef stew/Spam Canned Vegs: Mixed peas & carrots

Rita Isaacson, Managing Editor Chris Levandowski, Copy Editor Hank Rau, Copy Editor Amanda Lindberg, Special Pages Andrea Leshinskie, Photo Editor Dave Tolli, Photo Editor Barbara Blanchette, Mindy Borrego, Carolyn Carter, Nancy Dudenhofer, Elaine Girard, Karen Cleary, Patricia Kovaleski, Eileen Longhi, Lew Noble, Donna Schedinger, Faith Tyldsley Reporters & Contributors

Social Services The focus of the Social Services Department is to coordinate existing federal, state, regional and local services, to increase community awareness of these services and to develop new programs to meet the needs of Granby residents. For more information about any of the following programs, contact Director Sandra Yost at 860-844-5351. Office hours are weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

FIND US

Granby Local Assistance Program: Granby residents facing financial hardship may access funds once in a 12-month period. The gross household income cannot exceed 60 percent of State Median Income, unless extenuating circumstances can be documented. Elderly (65+) or Disabled Renters Rebate: The Social Services office will take applications for the Renters Rebate program from April 1 through Oct. 1, 2019. Maximum income guidelines are $36,000 for single, $43,900 for married. Applicant must have turned 65 years of age by the end of 2018. Persons under 65 years of age who are receiving Social Security Disability are also eligible. Contact the Social Services office at 860844-5350 for an appointment. If unsure that you would qualify, call the office and we can prescreen over the phone. Renters Requirements (not comprehensive): 1) Must have rented

in Granby during 2018 and currently reside in Connecticut; 2) Provide proof of rent paid in 2018, e.g. rent receipts from landlord or cancelled checks; 3) Provide proof of actual bills paid in 2018 for electricity, gas, water and fuel; 4) Provide proof of income, e.g. Form SSA 1099, pensions. Prescription Discount Card: Presented by the Town of Granby, this card helps residents save money on prescription medications any time a prescription is not covered by insurance. There is no cost to participants and not all medications are covered. CHOICES Counselor: By appointment on Wednesday, Sept. 18. CHOICES is a program provided by the State of Connecticut that presents information and assistance about Medicare. Counselors are trained in Medicare and are not affiliated with insurance companies. Call 860-844-5350 to make an appointment.

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Alan Addley, Lori Blackburn, Jennifer Benson,

Donations can be dropped off at the VNA office on Salmon Brook Street

Jay Harder, Rachel Hennessy, Carol Laun, Joanne Mayornick, Amy McCue, Shirley Murtha, John R. Nieb,

CORRECTIONS Please tell us if you find an error in this issue of the Drummer. We’ll attempt to correct it in the following issue. Leave a message at 860-653-9222 or send an email to: editor@granbydrummer.org.

KEEP US IN THE LOOP

Camden Robertson, Lisa Salazar, Emma Smith, Faith Tyldsley, Kristine Vincent, John Violette, Laura Wolfe, Sandy Yost Advertising Team Jen Bell, Carol Bressor, Deborah Kulwich, Beth Rathey, Subscriptions & Delivery Sam & Becky Mikus

Send your news articles and ideas, photos and letters to: editor@granbydrummer.org. Please include your name, phone and email address. Deadlines for the next issue are printed on the back page in this issue or visit our website: www.granbydrummer.com.

Town of Granby Meeting Calendar Board of Selectmen, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall, Tuesday, September 3, Monday, September 16 Board of Finance, 7:30 p.m., Police Community Room, Monday, September 23 Board of Education, 7 p.m., Central Office, Wednesdays, September 4, September 18 Planning & Zoning, 7 p.m., Town Hall Tuesdays, September 10, September 24 Inland Wetlands & Watercourses, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesday, September 11

@GranbyDrummer

AnnMarie Cox, Marisa DeLuca, Peter Dinella, Bernadette Gentry,

Development Commission, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Monday, September 9

LETTERS POLICY

The Drummer welcomes letters. Letters do not necessarily reflect the views of the CBG Board and the Drummer. The length of letters will be held to 500 words and less. To be published, letters must be signed and include an address and phone number. This information will not be given to anyone other than the necessary editorial staff. Letters from readers who do not reside in Granby will have the town of residence noted with the letter. The Drummer reserves the right to edit and shorten letters, and to run them in any electronic form. Letters become the property of the Drummer. Email your letters to: editor@granbydrummer.org

September 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 5 Op-Ed

Op-Ed

Granby on a learning curve

Let’s support the Clark Farm

A time to look at successful best practices By Susan Patricelli Regan What Connecticut Gold Coast town had a ’18—’19 mill rate of 11.369 and kept it ﬂat for ’19—’20? It is also rated as #12 out of the 100 best towns to live in the U.S. and resident satisfaction has improved over the last three years in all departments. How did they achieve this? 1. Monthly department head meetings were instituted to promote cross-departmental dialogue and to ensure coordination of efforts. 2. The administration started “Weʼre Listening” note cards for patrons of town hall to provide immediate feedback about their experience. 3. By 2012, they grew that initiative into a formal, coordinated customer service program known as Community First. Since its inception, the town has trained all frontline staff in customer service best practices, implemented a biennial and has set and tracked customer service goals for every department annually. With success in providing improved customer service, this initiative has transitioned the focus to process improvement (Lean Six Sigma). The town has trained almost all leadership and supervisory staff in Lean Six Sigma. Through annual performance evaluations, department heads are encouraged to set process improvement goals. 4. Notably, with a focus on process improvement and waste reduction, the town is accomplishing more, with less. When adjusted for inﬂation, the town is spending less on services like general

Drumrolls

Jonah T. Yeakley, Class of 2020, was named to the Spring 2019 Dean’s List at Westfield State University. Taylorann Vibert made the Dean’s list at the University of Maryland. Goodwin College’s spring 2019 dean’s list: Olivia Cegelka, Heather Albanese, Darice Clark, Michael Gero, Vera Martins and Eileen Kaczor. Goodwin College’s spring 2019 president’s list: Heather Albanese, Darice Clark, and Eileen Kaczor. University of New Hampshire names the following to the spring 2019 highest honors list: Courtney Rambush, Parker Berberian and Austin Butler. Grace Kortchmar received a BS degree in social work from Park University Kansas City. Nathan Duray, Nathan Jennings, Shannon Jennings, Simon O’Neil, Olivia Papa and Joseph Accetura were named to the University of Hartford spring 2019 dean’s list.

government, public works, parks and recreation, and public health than 10 years ago, without major service reduction. Additionally, the town has reduced headcount by 43.46 full-time equivalent positions since 2008. 5. Granby’s residential tax revenue is about 93 percent and the town that I am referring to has residential tax revenue of 87 percent. 6. Granby’s population of 65+ is 15 percent and the comparative town is 17 percent. This is a “snapshot” of respective profiles with total populations at a significant variance but worth taking into consideration when orchestrating a marketing plan going forward for Granby. Note statistics are as of 2012 for Granby and the alternate town for 2018. That’s another thing we need—an updated reference source for our town. What is the alternate “gold coast” town? It’s name also starts with GR. In summary, for far too long we have accepted leadership that “allows what it wants the public to know” and “listens to the public voice selectively.” We need to have a new successful best practices approach. Susan Patricelli Regan is the Host of CT Valley Views TV Program www.ctvalleyviews.com, President of Foxfield F.A.R.M. Foundation www. foxfieldcoverymission.org; Founder of the Sylvia Davis Fine Arts Scholarship www.sylviadavisart.com and former VP Marketing and Community Trade Relations for DIAGEO N.A.

Lexi Cyr, Morgan Schwegman, and Ana Clonts were named to the spring 2019 dean’s list for Manchester Community College. Matthew Behrens, Joseph Ferrando and Juna Grier were named to the school’s spring 2019 president’s list. Samantha L. Dolan completed a BS degree in wellness management, cum laude, in spring 2019 at SUNY Oswego.

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The Granby Drummer reserves the right, without explanation, to reject any advertisement. Advertisers assume the responsibility for the content of all ads they submit for publication, including having authorization for all photos, trademarks and brand names used in their ads. The Granby Drummer will assume no liability for failure to publish an ad or for any typographical errors or omissions beyond the actual cost of the ad.

By Shirley Murtha I am writing in support of Clark Farm’s application to the Planning and Zoning Commission to have a select number and type of events in their very nice looking white tent on the orchard property. The residents of Strawberry Field have issued several complaints. Their concern that events might be noisy is valid, but the Clarks have agreed to have a small set number of such gatherings and that music would be over at a specified time, even as early at 9 p.m. In my opinion, other complaints really do not have much merit. The complaint that the tent ruins their view is an exaggeration, as only a few of the houses can see the tent, and for some, it would seem one would have to be on the second floor to do so. If the tent were not there, they would have an unrestricted view of the backside of St. Therese Church. Now I may be wrong about this, but I think the nice white tent in the middle of the field is a better view. The tent has not stopped the birds from flying in the orchard, and the bears and coyotes can still roam freely. As for worrying about excess traffic: Strawberry Field Road is not very near the entrance to the Farm. We are talking about a few isolated events at the farm, not the weekly fall U-picks. Is it really asking too much to have to wait at the end of the road for some cars to pass for a one-time wedding, as opposed to weekly apple picking? Speaking of the U-pick events, the farm has been hosting apple-picking events for as long as I can remember—first as Bushy Hill Orchard and now as Clark Farm. One of the complainants went on and on about how if the Clarks have weddings or other parties, the exhaust from the full parking lot of cars whose leaking oil into the water table would be bad for the environment. Every apple-

picking season, the lot is full and cars line the road for many weeks in a row. To my knowledge, no one has ever complained about that. I think the percentage of cars leaking oil must be quite low. As for the intersection of Bushy Hill and Rte. 20 being dangerous—that may be true but it has always been, and is not the responsibility of the Clark Farm. Cars will go in both directions when they leave the Farm; let’s not get into regulating which direction they can go. Then there is the complaint that if the Clarks sell hard cider, people will get drunk on the property and find their way to the pond behind Strawberry Field residents and drown. I can’t imagine someone who is that drunk being able to make his/her way through the dense growth (with lots of thorns) to the pond, but then, I’ve never been that drunk. The complaint that irks me the most is the one that the residents paid into a fund to have a conservation easement guaranteeing no development at the orchard, and they seem to consider having a tent up in the summer and an occasional wedding or family party to be development. The orchard is not being developed; it is being used by the farm. No houses are being built; no industry is moving in. Why this has not been clearly explained to them, I do not know, but somehow they think that a conservation easement allows them to decide what the farm does based on having contributed money for the easement. They do not seem to understand the difference between development and usage. As is true for most farmers, the Clarks need to find ways to serve the public in addition to providing fruits, vegetables and other delicious things to eat if they want to stay afloat in today’s economy. Let’s not stand in the way of that.

Page 6 The Granby Drummer

September 2019

TOWN OF GRANBY PLANNING & ZONING MINUTES — JULY 23, 2019 Present: Paula Johnson (Chairman), Jonathan Boardman, Margaret Chapple, Christine Chinni, Mark Lockwood, Eric Lukingbeal, Eric Myers, James Sansone and Brennan Sheahan. Also present was Abby Kenyon, Director of Community Development. Seating of alternates: Christine Chinni and Brennan Sheahan were seated for approval of the minutes and consideration of File Z-7-19. Margaret Chapple and Mark Lockwood were seated for the remainder of the meeting. Public Session Items not on the agenda. Nothing discussed. On a motion by Eric Myers seconded by Jonathan Boardman, the commission voted (7-0-0) to approve the minutes of July 9 with a modification. The following sentence, “Jonathan Boardman recused himself” belongs with File Z-8-19, not File Z-7-19. Consideration of an application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Sections 3.5.2.10 and 8.21.4, personal service in the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone, massage center, for property located at 345 Salmon Brook Street. (Public Hearing closed on July 9) James Sansone stated he would like information regarding traffic flow, possible issues with a townowned right of way in the area, and comments from other town staff. It was noted the public hearing has been closed; any comments should have been received and discussed during the hearing. Abby Kenyon provided clarification on technical items, noting body massages will most likely require permitting through the Department of Public Health and the building official will review all renovations to ensure compliance with the building code, including doors and proper openings. The commission noted there would be less traffic than before with this proposed use; the possible right of way and multiple driveways have not been an issue in the past; and this use is compatible with the area and the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone regulations.

On a motion by Myers seconded by Boardman, the commission voted to approve a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Sections 3.5.2.10 and 8.21.4, personal service in the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone, massage center, for property located at 345 Salmon Brook Street, with the condition that the applicant obtain licensing/permits as may be required from the State, (5-2-0). Lukingbeal and Sansone opposed. Public Hearing Application seeking to modify a Special Permit for an existing farm store under Zoning Regulations Section 8.15.17 to allow special events for property located at 29 Bushy Hill Road. File Z-10-19. Paula Johnson stated the commission would like to acknowledge the public comments made by Michael Fitzgerald at the July 9, 2019, public hearing and to make them part of the record for this application, including the July 9, 2019, meeting minutes and video. Representing the applicant Becky Clark, Attorney Carl Landolina of Fahey and Landolina Attorneys, LLC, addressed the commission. Landolina stated the sale and manufacture of hard cider was already approved by the commission and that tonight’s discussion was about the tent location and the ability to hold special events. Landolina noted the Department of Agriculture has approved the tent’s location outside the building envelope as it is not considered a structure based on their definition. The Department is now reviewing the proposal to host special events in the tent. He noted the Planning and Zoning Commission also has the authority to review the tent and proposed special events under this Special Permit application. He went on to explain the Zoning Regulations support agriculture, as noted in Section 8.15.17, and agritourism is an important part of supporting farming operations and the preservation of farmland. Bill Russell, 12 Brookside Drive, a retired landscape designer, described why the tent location was selected: 1) the ground is level with slight grade for drainage; 2) stable soil type to allow drainage; 3) the area is not under cultivation; 4) it is away from

BOARD OF SELECTMEN PUBLIC HEARING JUNE 17, 2019 The public hearing of the Board of Selectmen was called to order by First Selectman B. Scott Kuhnly at 6:45 p.m. Present: B. Scott Kuhnly, Sally King, Mark Neumann, and Edward Ohannessian First Selectman Kuhnly opened the public hearing and stated the purpose of the hearing is to receive public comment regarding the approval of proposals for the Connecticut Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit Program. Kuhnly gave a synopsis of the program starting with the programs that qualify for the tax credit, the role of the municipal liaison and the role of the Selectmen. The applicant must first complete the three-part application and submit it to the municipal liaison, Sandra Yost, who in turn submits it to the Board of Selectmen. It is then reviewed at a public hearing and considered by the Board of Selectmen. The application is then submitted to the State of Connecticut Department of Revenue Services for approval. First Selectman Kuhnly stated one application was received from Foxfield F.A.R.M., William Regan and Susan Patricelli Regan, 62 Hungary Road. William Regan provided additional information about the program. They have served 24 veterans over the last few years with equine therapy. He stated it has been proven to help those with anxiety, depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The scholarships for veterans are for a six-week program, one day a week for two hours. The program has been very successful. No other public addressed the public hearing.

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the store and equipment storage; 5) it does not block the view of the orchard from the farm store; 6) it is a beautiful spot near the pond. Landolina noted this application complies with Section 8.2. He stated the tent is in a suitable location and is of an appropriate size and nature for the lot as it takes up one-twentieth of an acre, the distance to the property line is greater than any required setback, and the applicant will plant fast growing White Pines to further screen the tent from view. For neighborhood compatibility, the tent is approximately 1,200 feet to the nearest house. He also noted the applicant is willing to purchase and install tent sides for two or three sides to address any noise and visual concerns. In response to questions about parking, Clark noted during harvesting time, customers are gone by 5 p.m.; any special event would commence after this time so there would be room in the parking lot. All visitors would be brought by wagons to the tent. She also noted Port-o-lets would be used; special events would be limited to 150 people, six times per year with amplified music, which would cease by 9 p.m.; there would not be a dumpster near the tent; the landscape buffer near the pond would minimize drift from crop spraying and would also dampen any noise; and string lights on the inside edge of the tent and smaller table lights would be used; there would be no other lighting. In response to a question about compatibility with other uses in the area, it was noted the property is an active farm and measures could be taken to mitigate any concerns. Furthermore, the farm existed well before the surrounding homes were built. Regarding Section 8.15.17 Farm Store, Landolina noted this is a brick-and-mortar operation and the production of hard cider will be contained within the existing building. Products for sale comply with the farm store regulation. The following people spoke during the public hearing: Tim Squier, 90 Silver Street; Chris Strapp, 10 Indian Hill Drive; Michael Wiggins, 14 Strawberry Fields; Thomas Hall, 15 Strawberry Fields; Maggie Percival, 6 Strawberry Fields; Lisa Bennett, 27 Mechanicsville Road; Richard Caley, 17 Cedar Drive; Ann Carey, 11 Strawberry Fields; David Russell, 5 Strawberry Fields; Louise Hoar, 7 Strawberry Fields; Dan Carey, 11 Strawberry Fields; Lorraine Morelli, 29 Bushy Hill Road; Michael Fitzgerald, 25 Strawberry Fields; Cheryl Yorio, 10 Strawberry Fields; Michael Ungerleider, 12 Strawberry Fields. Those with concerns noted the following: neighborhood compatibility issues; noise; traffic; parking; alcohol use; lack of definition for special events; tent location; number of proposed events; liability issues surrounding the pond; environmental impacts; property values; and commercial use of

the property. It was also suggested the tent be located within the building envelope and traffic should exit the property to Kelly Lane. Those in support noted the following: the church service and farm-to-table dinner enhances community and does not impact the neighborhood; the Clark family is compassionate and respectful; there is a need to support farming operations; at one time the area was homes surrounded by farms; and other neighborhood activities generate more noise than the farm. The commission discussed the definition of special events and how this differs from smaller gatherings or use of the tent during regular business hours; the number of events that are proposed and what each event will entail; distance requirements from the point of alcohol sales to where they are consumed on site; amplified music; and the parking layout. Lukingbeal visited the site and submitted a photo of the property. It was suggested other commissioners may also want to visit the site. Kenyon noted if commissioners choose to visit the site, as this will not be a scheduled meeting, they are to go on their own and may not discuss the application with the applicant or any residents. In response to a question about the public hearing, Kenyon stated under state statute the applicant must agree to an extension if the hearing is to be continued to the next regularly scheduled meeting on September 10. Landolina consented to an extension. Lockwood asked the applicant to submit any information they receive from the Department of Agriculture prior to the next meeting. Receive application and set public hearing Kenyon reported Tim’s Automotive of 352 Salmon Brook Street has submitted an application to renew its Special Permit. The application has been scheduled for public hearing on September 10. Staff Reports and Correspondence Approval of an application seeking a Site Plan modification under Zoning Regulations Section 4.2.13, emergency generator, for property located at 9 Bank Street. Kenyon reported that Geissler’s submitted a site plan mediation to install an emergency generator behind its building. The location meets the required set-backs and the generator specifications have been reviewed for noise output. It was noted testing will be done during the day. Commissioner Reports and Correspondence The Commission will hold a special meeting on Sept. 16 to review the proposed drive-through regulation changes. Respectfully submitted, Patricia Tappenden, Recording Secretary

September 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 7

REGISTRAR OF VOTERS A reminder to young voters who are leaving for college. You can register to vote or check your registration online by visiting the Secretary of State’s website. If you are staying in Connecticut, you may transfer your registration to your new town of residence. If you will be attending college or university outside of Connecticut, every state has different rules and you will need to check with local election officials. You may also vote by Absentee Ballot; applications are being accepted now by the town clerk for anyone wishing to receive a November ballot. Voter registration is a public record, and we make it easy to confirm your voter registration 24/7. From the Town of Granby website there is a link to the Secretary of the State’s website’s online voter registration look-up tool: dir.ct.gov/ sots/LookUp.aspx There is also a link to Online Voter Registration, which is also available 24/7 to enroll, or to make name, party or address changes to an existing voter registration: voterregistration. ct.gov/OLVR/welcome.do Posted office hours for the registrars’ office are Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Paper voter registration forms are also available at town halls, libraries, DMV offices and online at the Secretary of State’s website: sots.ct.gov. The registrars also offer a free 5-15 minute overview on voting for any interested town groups. Please contact the registrars at 860-844-5322 or lwolfe@granby-ct.gov and ssmith@ granby-ct.gov We would be happy to arrange this. Absentee Ballots are handled through the Town Clerk’s office and voters must send in an application to receive an absentee ballot. For primaries and general November elections, send in an application for your absentee ballot at least one month before the election or primary and mail your completed ballot immediately after you receive your ballot. The applica-

ON THE BALLOT FOR NOV. 5, 2019 OFFICE

REPUBLICAN

FIRST SELECTMAN BOARD OF SELECTMEN

B. Scott Kuhnly Edward E. Ohannessian Sally King Mark Neumann James C. Lofink

BOARD OF FINANCE

Michael B. Guarco, Jr. Kelly O. Rome

William J. Kennedy

BOARD OF EDUCATION

Mark Fiorentino Rosemarie Weber

Jenny P. Emery Lynn F. Guelzow

David Peling

Monica L. Logan Christine Chinni

Lowell C. Johnson Mark Lockwood Jonathan T. Boardman

Brennan Sheahan

BD OF ASSESSMENT APPEALS PLANNING AND ZONING

PLANNING & ZONING ALT.

Paula H. Johnson

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

Ann Crimmins Steve Muller

ZONING BD OF APPEALS ALT. TOWN MODERATOR

David Hennessey John E. Adams

tion is available through the Town Clerk or online at the Secretary of State’s website: sots.ct.gov Calendar Review: Absentee Ballot applications are being collected now by the Town Clerk for those who know they will be away from home on Nov. 5. The form is available at Town Hall or on the web at sots.ct.gov Wednesday Sept. 11: Public Lottery to determine Horizontal Ballot Order at 11 a.m. in the Town Hall Meeting Room Tues Sept. 24: BOE Candidate Forum at 7 p.m. in the Town Hall Meeting Room Fri Oct. 4: Absentee Ballots become available from the Town Clerk for Nov. 5 Election Questions? Please contact the Registrars, Laura Wolfe and Sonja Smith at 860-8445322 or by email: lwolfe@granby-ct.gov and ssmith@granby-ct.gov

DEMOCRAT

PETITIONING CANDIDATE Glenn G. Ballard John Alexander Bazyk

Suzanne Yucha

BOE candidate forum is Sept. 24 In honor of National Voter Registration Day, candidates who are running for the Granby Board of Education on the November ballot have been invited to attend a Candidate Forum being sponsored by the registrars office. This event will be held in the high school auditorium on

Drumrolls

Erin Henebry, Gerald McDonald, Malcolm Mongeau, Kristen Perry, Abigail Sannizzaro and Danielle Sturgeon were named to the spring 2019 dean’s list at Bryant University. Jordan T. Zajac was recently named to the dean’s list at Colby College. Tristan Longley graduated from Saint Anselm College with a BA in international relations and history.

Tuesday, Sept. 24, at 7 p.m. The public is invited to come meet the candidates, learn about local issues, and understand the importance of voting and registering to vote. We will also cover the statutory duties and responsibilities of our local boards.

Rebecca McCord was named to the Spring 2019 dean’s list at Muhlenberg College. Heather Sunshine Smyth was named to The University of Alabama Dean’s List for spring 2019. Nicolette Tigno graduated cum laude from Ithaca College with a BS in Occupational Therapy.

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Page 8 The Granby Drummer

September 2019

From The Ground UP celebrates 8 graduates By Alicia Newton This is our future — I have seen it and it is good. Really, really good. The young people pictured (plus one who was unable to join us) have collectively given 1,573 hours of their time in their service years with From the Ground UP. They have cleared, planted, and maintained garden beds to supply food for free community meals and veteran families. They have rehabbed and maintained a community compost to regenerate the soil and reduce food in the waste stream. They rescued thousands of pounds of food and spent countless hours turning it into incredibly delicious free meals for the community. They have worked with community leaders to develop business plans for school food solutions and community centers. They have studied food systems and how they intersect with other systems. They learned to think critically about their ideas and how sometimes solutions can have unintended consequences that create other issues. They have met some of the most influential leaders in the food justice movement from around the world, asking them questions to grow their understanding. They have written grants to support their work and held community events to educate and engage others. They have big ideas and have made it happen through hard work, passion, and dedication. They show up even when they are feeling overwhelmed by the unrelenting demands on their lives. Sometimes meetings are spent navigating those intense

pressures and helping each other through those times. It is our hope that they are leaving our community with the knowledge that they hold the power to change the world, and in fact have already begun to do that. At our celebration, we gave our “pollinators” a send-off I hope they never forget. They were given awards with words of praise from Nourish My Soul, Resilience Grows Here, State Rep. Tami Zawistowski, State Rep. Bill Simanski, and U.S. Congressman John B. Larson (who were unable to attend). Granby Board of Education was there to support them with then-Superintendent Alan Addley, Assistant Superintendent Chris Tranberg, and BOE member Sarah Thrall. We are going to miss this group’s thoughtfulness, kindness, and strong leadership. They have some mighty big shoes to fill! Many new recruits attended with a desire to become our newest leaders. It truly is because of the reputation and legacy that these seniors have built. Participants included Georgia McDougall (our moth), Emma Fetridge (our butterfly), Spencer Kimble (our black and white ruffed lemur), Tina Brose (our lady bug), Chloe Gosselin (our rainbow lorikeet), Evan Holm (our bat), Amber Bourgault (our humming bird) and Caitlin Strzegowski (our bee). If you are a high school student interested in becoming a From The Ground UP leader, please complete this form online tinyurl.com/fgu2019-20 or email alicia@ nourishmysoul.org. There is no financial cost to join, only time commitment.

Granby 4-H sign-up night is Oct. 2

Granby 4-H sign-up night is planned for 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 2, at Holcomb Farm Workshop. The presentation will introduce the youth officer team, leaders, and project groups available for the 20192020 program year. Valuable information will be provided for prospective new members on the uniqueness of the club and how it works. Following the introduction, you will have the opportunity to speak with individual leaders and sign up for their groups. In order to offer new and exciting opportunities for Granby 4-H members,

additional volunteer leaders are needed. Please consider what you have to offer the 4-H youth. You, friends, family members, co-workers, etc., are encouraged to share your knowledge with the youth. Commitment can range from a couple of hours per year, a few hours per month, or any amount of time in between. You can help “make the best better.” All volunteers must complete an application and receive leader training. If you have any questions about joining or volunteering, please contact granbyct4h@gmail.com

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From the Ground UP celebrants are, from l.: Georgia McDougall, Emma Fetridge, Spencer Kimble, Cristina Brose, Justine Ginsberg (leader of Resilience Grows Here), Alicia Newton (Nourish My Soul executive director), Chloe Gosselin, Evan Holm, Amber Bourgault, and State Representative Tami Zawistowski. (Not pictured: Caitlin Strzegowski) Submitted photo

Marquis 50 cont’d. from p. 1 Other fife and drum corps from around New England are invited to attend and perform along with us. This muster is one that you do not want to miss. The members have been working tirelessly to learn new music to debut at the event and are currently preparing a unique marching maneuver. The visiting corps are bringing with them music of different eras and styles, from American Civil War to modern interpretation of a Swiss tradition. Switzerland, incidentally, isthe nation where fife and drum music has its origins. The muster weekend will take place on Sept. 21-22 at East Granby Farms recreation area on 79 North Main Street. It will begin with an evening performance on Saturday at 7 p.m., traditionally called a “tattoo,” and will feature the Marquis as well as a few of the visiting guest

corps. All gathered corps will parade through East Granby Farms recreation area beginning at 11 a.m. on Sunday. After the parade, each corps will perform a selection of its choice, showcasing their unique style. Both days are open to the public and are free. East Granby Historical Society will have food for sale and will open their barn for tours, and children will have some old-fashioned games to play. Come enjoy the music, pageantry and traditional spirit of this local event! Rebecca Rose Kaczmarek joined the Marquis in September of 2012, and has attained the rank of Major. She begins her studies at College of the Holy Cross this year but is sure to be back to play fife with the Marquis whenever her schedule will allow.

September 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 9

PTO Corner

By the PTO Executive Board

It is hard to believe that another school year is upon us. As these last few weeks and days of summer come and go, the PTO is hard at work planning and preparing for an exciting 2019-20 academic year. For those new to Granby and/or the Granby School System, the PTO serves the students, their families and school staff at Kelly Lane Primary School (grades PK thru 2) and Wells Road Intermediate School (grades 3 thru 5). It is run by a volunteer executive board made up of local parents that this year includes Jess Tsaptsinos, president; Caroline Caldwell, vice president; Colby Custer, treasurer; Kristin Ryan, secretary; Melissa Royer, assistant treasurer and Anam Zafar, assistant secretary. The executive board supports several committees chaired and run by parent volunteers. Be on the lookout for a signup link via email in the next few weeks as well as opportunities to sign up during back-to-school teacher meetand-greets. These committees provide an opportunity for parents to connect with one another, with their children’s friends and classmates, teachers and staff. Without the continued support of our parent volunteers, we would not be able to succeed in all that we do throughout the year. Whether you choose to chair a committee or only have an hour or two to spare, we welcome your time and attributes. With the PTO’s eyes set on fall fundraising, our main event is shaping up to be even bigger and better than last year. The Jog-aThon/Fall Festival will return on Oct. 20, from 9 a.m.- 3 p.m., with a Halloween theme complete with costume contests, trick-ortreat stations and more. This is a drop-in event with activities and contests running all day so no one will miss out no matter

what time you show up. The executive board has set a fundraising goal of $30K for this event and with the combined efforts of the students, parents and the Granby community we can make this goal a reality. There will be something for everyone; food trucks, local vendors, face painting, hair tinsel and chalk, gaga pit, obstacle course and much, much more. Participation is also open to neighboring communities, so invite your friends and family. Local vendors that would like to participate should email Jess Tsaptsinos at jessw2780@gmail.com All proceeds from fundraising support various PTO- and school-run activities and initiatives, including, but not limited to classroom teacher grants thru the enhanced learning fund committee (ELF). ELF is given a $10K budget to support such requests as coding materials, STEM/STEAM activity kits for the classrooms, open choice time supplies and many other learning-based materials. Keep an eye out for a new Sensory Path being installed at Wells Road School. The generous support through donations and gifts from the Granby community such as Geissler’s is greatly appreciated. The PTO is also working on a website re-design that will be more user friendly and a source for all PTO related information, Granby clothing purchases, tickets to special events, sign-ups, etc. Please make sure to also follow our Granby, CT PTO Facebook page for weekly updates, meeting information and pictures. The PTO meets quarterly at 6:30 p.m. in the media center at Wells Road School. Meetings are open to the public and dates will be posted to our Facebook and website. We welcome and encourage all to attend.

Granby Youth Service Bureau’s Peer Educator Program: What it is and why it’s important By AnnMarie Cox Youth Services Coordinator Peer education is a method of information dissemination used in many public health initiatives. When a target population is in need of information that is deemed essential to maintain health, it is a well-documented fact that they are most likely to seek information and believe facts given to them by peers. So while we would like to think our youth would go to a teacher or parent with questions related to making healthy choices, in fact they are likely to base decisions on information they get from friends. If a community is trying to reduce a target behavior, say the number of new HIV cases, they will target information about needle exchange to members of the community who are in fact already drug users. These people are more effective in spreading the word on safe practices than health care workers who may be ignored. In our community, we know that to reduce risky behaviors among our youth, educating a core group of youth about specific topics will plant the seeds of information that will be shared within the group, and have more impact than a dozen lectures or public service announcements. The YSB’s Peer Educator program started two years ago with a focus group of youth from the middle and high schools. They met with us to develop a list of the topics they felt were of concern to the youth of our community. We took these topics and developed a series of one-to-two hour training sessions that provide up-to-date accurate information. At first we thought we would create a group that would spend a year learning about all the topics, and be our core group of peer educators; however, as we progressed, we moved to a different approach. We now offer these information sessions on a rotating basis throughout the year to any student interested in taking part. There is no need to join a group, or commit to anything other than learn-

Drumrolls

Lucille Papile and Jenn Ungerleider were named to the spring 2019 dean’s list at Dickinson College. Eastern Connecticut State University recently released its spring 2019 Dean’s List for full-time and part-time students. Among the students are: Jenna Smith,

ing about the topic of interest. Students who take part earn community service credit for the time spent in the class. Their willingness to learn the facts about any of these topics means they become the seeds of prevention that will be planted every time they share their knowledge with a friend. This is community service that could potentially save lives. The topics that were chosen by the focus group as being important to our youth include suicide prevention; suicide prevention among LGBT/GNC youth; safe dates-learning the signs of abusive relationships; the adolescent brain and why underage use of alcohol and marijuana is a greater risk than when adults use; body image and self-esteem; stress and anxiety management; vaping; the opioid epidemic,and the need for comprehensive sexual health education. We realized that of all the topics identified, the sexual health topic would be difficult to fit into the format of a two-hour one-shot educational program. Rather than dismiss the topic, the YSB looked into ways of providing the information to interested youth in the community, and began offering the Our Whole Lives sexual health course for students in grades 7, 8 and 9 last year. This is a full-year class that meets three times a month from October through April. This year’s class is registering now. The other topics lent themselves to the shorter information sessions. We have been offering them on a cycling basis. The schedule is listed and updated routinely on our website. This month we are presenting the vaping training on Sept. 24 from 7 to 8 p.m. On Oct. 22 we will cover suicide prevention. These sessions are open to parents and other community members in addition to high school students interested in peer education community service. If you have any questions about our Peer Educator program, or want to register for one of the sessions, call us at 860-844-5355.

who majors in general studies; Katrina Wheeler, who majors in accounting; Abigail Wilson, who majors in art. Heather Salter has been named to the University of Delaware’s dean’s list for the spring 2019 semester.

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Page 10 The Granby Drummer

September 2019

Eagle Scouts soar in Granby By Bryan Murach Becoming an Eagle Scout is a great accomplishment requiring years of dedication and hard work. The Eagle Award is the highest, most coveted rank in Boy Scouts and it is not easily earned. Generally, only 4 percent of all Scouts in the United States reach the rank of Eagle. Granby Venture Crew 2015 is proud to announce four new Eagle Scouts: Spencer Bolton, Chris Kardys, Joseph LaFlamme, and Chris Murach. Since first grade, these young men have been committed to training for leadership, the practice of service and the building of character. Requirements include positions of leadership within their unit, earning a minimum of 21 merit badges including 12 Eagle required badges, and embracing the Scout Oath and Law into their daily lives. Years of dedication that culminated with each of

Drumrolls

Jessica Manion earned a spot on the spring 2019 provost’s list at Hofstra University. Nikita Ivanynyuk and Caitlin Kopf were named to the school’s dean’s list. Emma Beman was named to Fairfield University’s spring dean’s list. Chandler Libby, an industrial engineering major, and Ben Hebert, a mechanical engineering major, were named to the spring 2019 dean’s list at Rochester Institute of Technology. Springfield College has named the following area students to the spring 2019 dean’s list: Jessica Storch, health

these teens being responsible for planning, developing, fundraising, executing their Eagle Project and leading others in a service project worthy of an Eagle Scout. Spencer Bolton fell in love with the Mary Edwards Property as a child. He enjoyed many outings on the property with his fellow scouts and it became his personal goal to add opportunities for the public to enjoy the landscape. Spencer has improved the Mary Edwards Preserve by restoring the existing flagpole, adding a small stone wall by the entrance to the trail and building and installing a wood bench by the pond. Spencer is following his passion for nature and its beauty by traveling to Europe and utilizing the many skills he learned in scouting. Chris Kardys made his church, the North Canton Community United Methodist Church, more energy efficient. His project entailed installing insulation un-

science and pre-physical therapy; Lily Holm, health science and pre-physical therapy; Ashlie Novak, health Science/ occupational therapy; Frederick Moffa, physical education, and Bryce Alexander, sport management. Erin Keener and Julianna Pestretto were named to the spring 2019 dean’s list at Gettysburg College. University of New Haven graduates are: Jacob Lareau, BS in criminal justice with a concentration in Investigative Services, and Caleb McMullin, MS in national security with a concentration in info protection and security.

Eagle Scouts from l.: Chris Kardys, Joe LaFlamme, Chris Murach, Spencer Bolton. Photo by Mark Bolton Photography LLC

der the sanctuary of the church, placing a plastic vapor barrier under the church, weather-stripping the sanctuary windows and doors and replacing all the lights in the church to LED. Chris has always been curious and inquisitive which has led him to study engineering at UCONN. Joseph LaFlamme created an outdoor prayer area with a fire pit in the woods behind Pilgrim Covenant Church in Granby. The fire pit now serves as an area for prayer, reflection, and worship. Joey’s church youth community utilizes the space for game nights and weekly youth group events. He is kind and faithful to others. He is attending the University of Maine and aspires to be a youth minister. Chris Murach always enjoyed the Granby Public Library as a child. For his project, he overhauled the entrance to the library making it more inviting so more people would use it. Chris regraded the entrance, designed and installed new landscaping, repaired the broken bike rack and power washed the entrance.

He hopes that patrons enjoy the new entrance, especially when it is in full bloom. Chris has a big heart and a passion to help others. He is attending Castleton University and studying psychology in order to pursue his dream of becoming a school psychologist. Granby is a very special town; some would say it’s above average and it is. This town exceeds the national average in Eagle Scouts because this community cares for its young people. These four young men are humbled by the generosity and support the townspeople have shown them—they are grateful and say thank you. These four Eagle Scouts have assumed a solemn obligation to do their Duty to God, to Country, to their fellow Scouts and to mankind. For centuries, the bald eagle has been a symbol of beauty, bravery, courage, honor, pride, determination and grace. These Eagle Scouts will soar high and with the qualities of an eagle, they can lead their community and nation toward a better tomorrow.

Open Farm Day cont’d. from p. 1

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a large animal vet at Angel Horses, get your face painted at the Granby Grange, pick apples at Clark Farms, learn about agroforestry at Wilhelm Farm, help Holcomb Farm CSA with its harvest and get lost in the Hayes Corn Maze. For the first time on Open Farm Day, guests at O’Brien Nursery will be able to see an observational beehive and learn why honeys taste different. At Schoolhouse Farm this year, visitors can explore a Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital ambulatory truck, learn how to care for alpaca with Dr. Weber, and see how horses are trained with the Granby Horse Council. New this year, the Copper Hill Vaulting Team will be sure to wow the crowd at Lost Acres Vineyard with their horseback gymnastics. Making its Open Farm Day debut, The Brewery at Maple View Farm will have flights of beer for tasting, farm-raised sausages to grill yourself and live music to enjoy on the lawn. Here’s how it works: Beginning at 10 a.m. on Sept. 14, start at any of the participating farms and pick up a passport and map. Spend the day visiting the open farms while collecting a new stamp in your passport at each location. At your final farm of the day, turn in your passport and be entered into a drawing for prizes donated by participating farms. Collect six or more stamps and you could win a $100 gift certificate to spend at the Thanksgiving Farmers Market at Lost Acres Vineyard on Nov. 25. The Agricultural Commission is charged with furthering the connection between Granby’s farmers and the community, which prompted the Open Farm Day event. Admission to Open Farm Day is free. For more information, visit GranbyAg. org

September 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 11

Youth Services Bureau

by AnneMarie Cox

Vaping: What parents need to know Sept. 24, 7 to 8 p.m. The Granby Senior/Youth Center Join us for a discussion of the latest information coming from sources such as Yale’s just-completed $10 million grant exploring the risks associated with vaping. Join an exchange of ideas on how best to curb this latest trend amongst our youth. Call 860-844-5355 to register to attend. Adventures In Living Mondays 3:30 to 5 starting Sept. 23 and running for six weeks Transportation is provided from Wells Road school to the Senior Center. A fun intergenerational program bringing Granby Senior Citizens together with kids in grades 4-6. Participants have fun with a variety of activities and games while learning about each other’s generation. For kids, this program helps make community connections, builds communication skills and helps them understand the process of aging and helps them see it as a natural process. It is natural for kids to fear or be uncomfortable around things they don’t understand, but once they get comfortable with a walker, or cane or hearing aid, they can get to know and enjoy the person using them. The focus is on exploration and fun. A snack is provided. Boys Council-Grades 4 and 5 A group for guys run by guys! This curriculum-driven group meets Mondays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. beginning Sept. 23 It is focused on play and games that will help participants explore some of the mes-

sages society sends about what it means to be a boy in our society. From body image to the rules of competition, the boys will begin to identify gender expectations, and decide what to do if they or a friend don’t fit those expectations exactly. The program goal is to identify healthy gender roles and help boys manage some of the pressures that might push them to act in ways they honestly don’t like. Our Whole Lives: Registration OWLS: Comprehensive Sexual Health through the Lifetime class for grades 7-9. This is a comprehensive class, based on the acclaimed OWLs curriculum developed by the United Church of Christ. We teach the non-faith based version for this course. This is a values-driven, sciencebased program that prepares children to make informed decisions regarding their sexual health. A mandatory parent meeting is required for all participants and will be held on Sept. 25 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the YSB. This class meets the first, second and fourth Wednesday of the month beginning in October and ends in April. Our first group ran last year. Not a single participant wanted to take the class…but a majority ended up enjoying the class and stuck with it the entire year. Call 860-844-5355 to register for the parent information meeting. Check out our website for registration information at granbyyouthservice bureau.com

Administrators and teachers honored

Throughout the 2018-2019 school year, donations were made to the Granby Education Foundation (GEF) in honor of the teachers and administrators shown below. As part of the GEF’s mission to encourage educational excellence, the Foundation is thrilled to recognize the efforts of these individuals. Please join the GEF in congratulating them and applauding their hard work and dedication.

Honoree

Alan Addley Pamela Addley Ingrid Budlong Patty Cruickshanks Jay Durej Christopher Kearns Pat Orlowski Kierstan Pestana Melinda Shilanski Jeffry Stanwood Volunteer Boys LAX Coaches: E. Lang, S. Moore, A. Warren

Donor Name

Jenny and Dave Emery The Ungerleider Family Jenny and Dave Emery The Proctor Family The Ungerleider Family The Ungerleider Family Zach Brewer Zach Brewer The Proctor Family Zach Brewer Zach Brewer Jenny and Dave Emery

Democratic Town Committee names slate for November elections By Matt Brady At the party’s annual caucus, Granby Democrats unanimously approved a slate of candidates that provides a strong mix of experience and energy heading into November’s municipal election. The 10 nominees for various elected positions will look to represent the town residents’ values of maintaining Granby’s strong educational standing and unique rural feel while also ensuring that working families and our aging population can continue to afford to live in our community. Education is a crucial issue for Granby in the coming years. With four seats available for election, the Democrats have nominated incumbents Jenny Emery (currently on the BoE Finance Subcommittee) and Lynn Guelzow (currently on the BoE Curriculum Subcommittee) along with newcomers Monica Logan and Christine Peaslee. The Democratic slate also features incumbents Sally King and Jim Lofink on the ballot for Board of Selectmen, while longtime Board of Finance member Bill Kennedy seeks re-election as well. Currently an alternate, Chinni looks to fill a permanent seat on the Planning and Zoning Committee this election cycle. Suzanne Yucha, who has been a longtime alternate on the Zoning Board of Appeals, seeks a permanent seat on that group, while David Hennessey is up for re-election as an alternate. “This is an important time for our town,” Democratic Town Committee Chair Chris Chinni said. “Granby will have a new superintendent for the first

time in over a decade, and though our school system is still very strong, we spend less on each student than the majority of towns like ours around the state. At the same time, we are facing continued cuts in state assistance and many of our residents aren’t sure if they can continue to live in our community if taxes continue to increase. “This is a time for intelligent, experienced, and dedicated public servants to come up with creative solutions to keep Granby the kind of wonderful town we knew it was when we decided to make it our home, and we feel the group of candidates we have assembled will honorably represent the people who make this town great.” “The Board of Education election is pivotal this year with new leadership coming and due to the fact that our schools comprise the majority of our annual budget,” Chinni added. “These four strong, intelligent women all have had, or currently have, children in the Granby Public Schools, and are incredibly dedicated to making sure our students get the best possible education without having to leave our town. “They also know,” she added, “that having a strong school system is crucial to attracting young families to Granby in order to continue to grow our community’s economy and continue to bring the kind of local businesses that make our town one that we are all proud to call home.” More information on all the candidates can be found at GranbyDems.org or by emailing granbydemocrats@gmail.com.

Town GOP selects candidates for November elections At their caucus on July 18, Granby Republicans unanimously nominated the following individuals for the Nov. 5 municipal elections: First Selectman: B. Scott Kuhnly; Board of Selectmen; Edward Ohannessian, Mark Neumann; Board of Finance: Michael B. Guarco, Jr.; Kelly O. Rome; Board of Education: Mark Fiorentino, Rosemarie Weber, David Peling; Board of Assessment Appeals: Lowell C. Johnson; Planning and Zoning: Mark Lockwood, Jonathan T. Boardman, Brennan Sheahan; Planning and Zoning Alternate: Paula H. Johnson; Zoning Board of Appeals: Ann Crimmins, Steve Muller; Town Moderator: John E. Adams.

The Lions Club gives a warm and hardy THANK YOU to those who made our annual Golf Tournament so successful!

PLATINUM SPONSORS Participant Appreciation

Congress Asset Mgmt

Pro Shares ETF

Eric McPheat – Norcom Mortgage Command Corporation State Line Propane Arrow Concrete

Legg Mason

R&R Power Equipment Pierce Builders Inc. Eaton Eye Care Northwest Community Bank

GOLD SPONSORS Ahrens-Fuller-St. John-Vincent Inc. Checkered Flag Auto Center, LLC Granby Dental Grass Helper Lawn Care Maximum Tree Service Peter L. Brown Co. Small Town Septic

Beacon Mechanical Services Evans Automotive, LLC Granby Family Eye Care Holloways’ Appliance Meadowbrook of Granby Russ’s Collision Services, LLC Tony Brown Industries

Cahill Motor Cars Edward Jones, Granby Granby Pharmacy Lori Riiska, CPA, LLC Paines, Inc. Simsbury Bank Wholesale Auto Supply

SILVER SPONSORS Back in Touch Wellness Center LLC Cambridge House Edgewood Golf Course Granby Car Wash Jakes Wayback Burgers Monrovia Rt 10 Tire Stop and Shop Windsor Federal Savings Bank

Beman True Value Hardware Costco Evans Automotive, LLC Grass Roots Ice Cream Kanes Market New Beginnings Simsbury Farms Tallwood Golf Course Wine, Etc.

Blue Fox Run Golf Course Copper Hill Golf Course Ellington Golf Course Hopmeadow Country Club Lost Acres Vineyard New England Pizza Sotelo’s The Zen Group

Page 12 The Granby Drummer

Out of Town

Events at Storyteller’s Cottage

Used Bike and Sewing Machine Collection Pedals for Progress/Sewing Peace, in its continuing effort to recycle unwanted items properly, is having a used bike and sewing machine collection sponsored by Memorial United Methodist Church in Avon. Anyone with an adult or child’s bicycle in repairable condition is urged to donate his or her bike to this worthy cause. We do not accept “bikes for parts” or disassembled bikes. We also accept working portable sewing machines, machines that have been removed from their cabinets with the foot or knee pedal, and sewing notions (no fabric, please). Bikes and sewing machines (including treadles) can be dropped off from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 7, rain or shine, at Memorial United Methodist Church, 867 W. Avon Road, Avon. To date, more than 156,000 bicycles and 4,400 sewing machines have been shipped to developing countries in Latin America, Africa and Eastern Europe. In these countries, the bikes

are reconditioned by partner agencies and distributed at low cost to poor working adults. Bikes provide reliable transportation for commuting to work, transporting products to market, and greater mobility accessing health care and other services. Sewing machine shipments help initiate educational programs and generate income opportunities that may otherwise remain out of reach for many people. Steady employment for adults is vital to the development and success of struggling communities. It costs $45 to collect, process, ship, rebuild and distribute each bicycle. A donation toward shipping costs is necessary for the continued success of the program; the suggested minimum is $10 per item. All cash and material donations are fully deductible and a receipt will be provided on site. Pedals for Progress/Sewing Peace is a 501(c) (3) corporation and a registered charity. For more information please call Anne Fitzgerald at 860-673-1216.

Seeking Crafters for Fall Artisan Craft Fair The Friends of the Southwick Public Library (a 501(c)(3) organization) are sponsoring a craft/artisan craft fair on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Southwick Town Hall. There will be outside booths and inside tables of locally made art and crafts and homemade products. The fee for inside or outside space is $20 per space. A raffle with donated items by the crafters/ artisans will benefit the FSPL. The craft fair is free and open to the public.

An artisan/crafter can pick up an application at the Southwick Public Library, 95 Feeding Hills Road, or download from southwicklibrary. info. Click on the Friends page for the application. Applications must be received by Sept. 9. The Southwick Town Hall is located at 454 College Highway, Southwick. For more information call Pat McMahon at 413-569-6531 or email southwickpat@ comcast.net.

Noble Cooley Museum Events Noble & Cooley Center for Historic Preservation (NCCHP) has announced its fall schedule. Edgar Allen Poe will be presented by re-enactor Campbell Harmon on Wednesday, Sept. 18, at 6:30 p.m. Harmon has been portraying the Master of the Macabre for audiences for over 10 years. He uses dramatic readings, historical biography and direct audience interactions to bring Poe and his writings to life. BOSH, the ever-popular Band Of Steady Habits, will perform on Wednesday, Oct. 16 at 6:30 p.m. This will be the final living history program of the season. This year BOSH will perform some lively Irish music and the history behind it. All NCCHP living history events are free to museum members, and $10

free-will donations from others to offset performance fees are appreciated. Light refreshments will be served after the programs. NCCHP monthly programs are made possible in part by grants from the Granville Cultural Council and donations from members and friends of the museum. Thanks in advance for your support to keep history alive. Granville Harvest Fair is Oct. 12– 14. The museum will be open all three days of the fair for tours and exhibits. Watch the museum website for more info. The museum is open for tours from noon–2:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Sundays of the month through Oct. 13, located at 42 Water St., Granville, Mass. For more information, visit ncchp. org or contact ncchp.org@gmail.com

Simsbury Grange Agricultural Fair The Simsbury Grange will host its annual Agricultural Fair on Saturday, Sept. 14, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring a bake and craft sale, exhibits from local organizations and farms, kids’ activities and contests with ribbons and cash prizes in several categories. Entertainment will be provided by folk musician Bill Benson, a singer/songwriter from Collinsville, who plays a variety of acoustic folk rock and is known for his ballads and smooth, strong vocal style. The community is invited to participate as an exhibitor and/or as an entrant in one of the many categories. Limited table spaces are available. Exhibitors are charged $25; non-profits exhibiting only (no sale items), no charge. Several contests with ribbons and

September 2019

cash prizes will be held. Categories for adults: fruits and vegetables, needlework, baked goods, flowers and plants. Categories for children: vegetables, LEGO creations, baked goods, two-dimensional art (original art and photography). Online registration is available by visiting simsburygrange. org/simsburyfairentry.asp. Fair brochures are available at the Simsbury Town Hall, Flamig Farm, the Simsbury Senior Center, the Simsbury Library or online at simsburygrange.org. Simsbury Grange Hall is located at 236 Farms Village Road (Rte. 309), West Simsbury. For additional information please contact Simsbury Grange President Barbara Friedland at 860-4139567 or info@SimsburyGrange.org.

Return To Downton Abbey On Saturday, Sept. 14, 4–5:30 p.m., the Storyteller’s Cottage will host Return to Downton Abbey: A Formal Afternoon Tea. All ages are welcome, the cost is $25; reserve at: storytellerscottage.com/ book-online/return-to-downton-abbey Wear your most beautiful hat and bring your knowledge of the Grantham family’s melodramas, enjoy a full formal tea, including miniature sandwiches, scones and clotted cream, and petite desserts and of course, hot or iced tea. While we nibble, play fun icebreaker and trivia games. Back to School at Hogwarts On Sunday, Sept. 15, 1–4 p.m., the Storyteller’s Cottage will host Back to School at Hogwarts. The cost is $50, and tickets can be reserved at: storytellerscottage.com/book-online/ back-to-school-at-hogwarts-1 Guests will spend the afternoon taking classes at Hogwarts, held in all of our different themed spaces, including our Magical Common Room, secret hidden Castle Room and Great Hall. Students can bring their wands and wear their robes or house colors. Author Talks The Storyteller’s Cottage will host talks with five successful local authors. The cost for each event is $5 and includes a light reception. Reserve at storytellerscottage.com/book-online Tina Angeli (Sept. 12, 7–8:30 p.m.) will speak about her book, We Are Angels: Positive Transformation Through Defining Moments, the story of how Tina’s visits from angels and three neardeath experiences shaped her life from childhood to adulthood. Marilyn Simon Rothstein (Sept. 19, 7–8:30 p.m.) is the author of Lift and Separate, winner of the Star Award presented by the Women’s Fiction Writers Association for Outstanding Debut. Husbands And Other Sharp Objects is her second novel. Serene Hackel (Sept. 22, 2–3 p.m.) will speak about her book, Skipper Goes to War: The True Story of a Pilot and His Dog, the true story of the beloved cocker spaniel who served as a good luck charm and guardian angel for the young crewmen of the B-17 Flying Fortress in World War II. Mary K. Savarese (Sept. 6, 7–8:30 p.m.) will host an intimate reading and

discussion of her book, Tigers Love Bubble Baths and Obsession Perfume: Who Knew?, a contemporary spiritual mystery that transcends three generations. James M. Chesbro (Sept. 29, 3–4:30 p.m.) will speak about his book, A Lion in the Snow, in which we find a contemporary father’s field guide, a husband’s compendium, and a wife’s glimpse into the turning mind of a spouse in the grounded prose of domestic conflict. Murder on the Trans-Siberian Express On Saturday, Sept. 21, 8–10:30 p.m., the Storyteller’s Cottage will host Murder on the Trans-Siberian Express, for ages 21 and over and will include a cash bar. Guests should wear their vintage finest. The cost is just $50; reserve at storytellerscottage.com/book-online/ murder-on-the-trans-siberian-express. It is 1906 and travelers are on their way from Moscow to Yekaterinburg. A mystery is afoot when the luxurious train is snowed in and the passengers have to kill some time at a fancy dinner party before the train can move on. Spend the evening with some unusual and suspicious passengers while you enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres and desserts. Seminar For Aspiring Travel Writers On Saturday, Oct. 5, 9:30 a.m.–6 p.m., the Storyteller’s Cottage will host a practical day of workshops for aspiring travel writers, featuring insightful and skills-based classes taught by five professional travel writers, with topics ranging from how to break into the industry, to how to find assignments, develop a niche and deal with rejection, and how to balance work and life. For details about the seminar and to register, visit storytellerscottage.com/ book-online/travel-writing-retreat. Enjoy a networking lunch with fellow local writers, and end the day with a refreshment hour and book signing. The cost of $125 includes lunch. The Storyteller’s Cottage is located in a vintage Victorian house in the center of historic Simsbury at 750 Hopmeadow Street. Parking for The Storyteller’s Cottage is free and is available on the street in front of the building, and in the Fiddler’s Green parking lot on Wilcox Street (behind the house). For more information, please call 860-877-6099 or visit StorytellersCottage.com

TVCA Legislative Breakfast Come meet state legislators from the north-of-Hartford region and review the critical legislation passed in 2019 impacting small businesses. The event will

be held on Tuesday, Sept. 24, 9:30 a.m. at Doubletree Hotel in Windsor Locks. Free for TVCA and CBIA members and $10 for non-members.

What makes a quilter tick? David Sirota will present, What Makes a Quilter Tick?, a fun-filled look in the mirror, at the September meeting of the Farmington Valley Quilters. He describes his lecture as, “…a laugh-outloud and interactive look at ourselves as quilters. We’ll examine the little quirks, passions, idiosyncrasies and obsessions

we all share.” His work can be seen at his website, quiltmavendave.com The meeting is Wednesday, Sept. 18, 7 p.m. in Eno Memorial Hall, 754 Hopmeadow St., Simsbury. Sign-in begins at 6:45 p.m. Guests are welcome for a guest fee of $10.

Not-so-golden life of the Gilded Age wife Windsor’s historic Oliver Ellsworth Homestead, a museum owned and maintained by the Daughters of the American Revolution, hosts a community program on Sunday, Sept. 15, 2 p.m. Join Velya Jancz-Urban and her daughter Ehris Urban, together known as the Grounded Goodwife, in their second Windsor appearance, as they describe the engrossing, humorous and sometimes taboo topics faced by women

in the Gilded Age. This is “her-story unsanitized.” Content is appropriate for older teens and adults. The Oliver Ellsworth Homestead, is at 778 Palisado Avenue in Windsor. Donations are $10 at the door or online at ellsworthhomesteaddar.org. Proceeds will benefit the Ellsworth Homestead. Refreshments will be served. For more information, call 860-688-8717 or email ema@ ctdar.org.

September 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 13

In Town Focus Mum Sale Benefits Cat Shelter

There will be a mum sale to benefit Mary’s Kitty Korner, Granby’s no-kill cat shelter on Saturday, Sept. 7, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. It will be held at 281 Salmon Brook St. in Granby. Prices: 8-inch plants are $6 each or 3 for $15; 12-inch plants are $20 each or 2 for $30.

SBHS Events

Open House Tours at Salmon Brook Historical Society will be Sundays, Sept. 8, 15, 22 and 29, 2–4 p.m. Special Exhibits: Circa 1830s Eight-Pointed Star Quilt Reproduction, Stitch in Time exhibit featuring antique sewing machines, textiles and sewing items with interactive displays. Small/Antique Engine Exhibit will be Saturday, Sept. 21, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. on the society grounds. Contact Don Rethke if you have an engine to show, 860-5496687 or flushbewithyou@yahoo.com The Fall Flea Market will be Saturday, Oct. 19, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on the society grounds. For vendor info contact Dave, 860-653-3965. Donations accepted Tuesdays and Thursdays between Oct. 1 and 17, 9 a.m.– noon.

MS Support Group

The Granby Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets at the Senior Center at 1 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday of each month. For more information, please contact Meaghan at 860-428-2463.

Women’s Breakfast

The Granby Women’s Breakfast starts its new program year on Wednesday, Sept. 11, at 8:30 a.m. at the Senior Center. Amy McCue, director of Library Services at the Granby Public Library, will speak about how libraries have changed and how she is working to move the Granby libraries forward while maintaining the hometown feel. Cost is $4. Please call Corinne Dickerson at 860-653-9891 to reserve your spot. Remember a donation for the Granby Food Bank.

Men’s Breakfast

Join us Friday, Sept. 13, at the Granby Senior Center. Duncan Rowles will present the current status and future of the U.S. Navy Sea Cadet Program. Breakfast is 8:30–10 a.m. If you are a new participant, please arrive by 8:15 and ask for Nat. After the morning welcome and news update, we enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast, followed by a 45-minute presentation. The breakfast typically includes eggs, pancakes, or French toast, sausage, home fries, coffee and orange juice.

Tag and Bake Sale

West Granby United Methodist Church will hold its annual Tag and Bake Sale on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The church is located at 87 Simsbury Road between Holcomb Farm and The Garlic Farm. Household items, holiday decor and more.

The Drummer welcomes announcements of upcoming events sponsored by Granby organizations. Announcements may not exceed 120 words.

Volunteers Needed

Mary’s Kitty Korner, Granby’s no-kill cat shelter, is looking for volunteers to help care for kitties until they find their “fur-ever” homes. If you love cats and have some time to spare on a weekday morning or evening or on a weekend morning or afternoon the shelter would love to hear from you. Call 860-3794141 or go to the website to find out more: maryskittykorner.org. Currently the greatest need is for Friday mornings.

Civic Club

Kim Becker, chair of Granby Education Foundation (GEF), will speak to the Granby Civic Club on Thursday, Sept. 19, 1 p.m. at the Senior Center. The GEF is a nonprofit that funds innovative education projects that enrich and energize Granby residents of all ages to engage in lifelong learning. Kim and her husband Chris moved to Granby in 2008 and have two children, ages 12 and 14. Kim is also a member of the Kearns Community Center board and is involved in local and state politics. All are welcome. Refreshments will be served. by post: The Granby Drummer P. O. Box 165 Granby, CT 06035-0165 by e-mail:

editor@granbydrummer.org

Granby Women’s Breakfast Group Programs for 2019-2020 2019 Sept 11, How Libraries are changing to meet community needs, with Amy McCue, Granby Director of Library Services Oct. 2, Tribute to Robin Williams, with Heather Styckiewicz, Instructor, at Manchester Community College Nov. 6, The Art of Glassblowing, with Annukka Ritalahti, Silver Street Glass Dec. 4, The Choral Voices from Granby Memorial High School, with Mindy Shilansky, Choral Director

2020 Jan. 8, Bobcats, the Spitfires of the Animal Kingdom, with Ginny Apple, Master Wildlife Conservationist with DEEP Feb. 5, From Grassroots Ice Cream to Deep Roots Street Food in Granby, with Eliza Florian, owner/creator March 4, Myths and Facts about Granby’s McLean Game Refuge, with Connor Hogan, Director April 1, Black Community in 19th Century Hartford—Hopes and Expectations, with Barbara Beeching, author May 6, Rome and its Uncovered Treasures, with Mario DeiDolori, local Italian travel advisor June 3, Traditional Sea Chanteys, with Chris Maden, singer Breakfast is at 8:30 a.m. with program 9–10 a.m., cost is $4/pp. Held at Granby Senior Center, 15C, North Granby Road

Faith Matters

Reaching New People I’m looking forward to experiencing fall in Granby. Autumn is my favorite season as we transition from warm September days to the vibrant colors and rich smell of turning leaves in October. For many of us daily rhythms shift as kids and teachers return to classrooms. Here at First Congregational Church of Granby the number of programs and events pick up, and we begin preparing for the holidays. Our theme for this fall is “Reaching New People.” We recognize that it can be difficult to connect. Mainstream media report epidemics of loneliness and suicide. No matter what our particular life stage, we can find ourselves struggling to find a sense of meaning and purpose. Community can be fragile and difficult. On the flip side, studies have shown that a sense of belonging can have strong positive health benefits both for individuals and the wider community. But how do we reach out and make that connection in respectful, fun, and life-giving ways? We will be exploring these questions throughout the fall season. We would love to see you Sunday mornings at 10am, 219 N. Granby Rd., Granby. We would particularly like to invite you to a Blessing of the Animals service on the church lawn, Sunday, September 15, 10am. Bring your pet, a photo of your pet, or your favorite stuffie for this all ages event. Treats and blessings for animals and their humans alike! Hope to see you soon. Pastor Todd Yonkman

Join us Sundays… Worship starting September 8 at 10am

First Congregational Church of Granby 219 North Granby Road, Granby, CT

860-653-4537 www.firstchurchgranby.org ADVERTISEMENT

Page 14 The Granby Drummer

Bruce Porter Music Series begins 2019-2020 season This fall, the Bruce Porter Memorial Music Series (BPMMS) will launch its eighth season of bringing classical music to life in Granby. This series was established in 2012 in memory of Bruce Porter’s leadership as music director at South Congregational Church. The concerts are held at South Congregational Church, at 242 Salmon Brook St. (Route 10), Granby. Admission is free, with a suggested donation of $15. The venue is wheelchair accessible. The series is sponsored by the music ministry at South Church and has been supported for four consecutive years by grants from the Granby Education Foundation, and before that by grants from the Greater Hartford Arts Council. Audiences of all ages from towns in Connecticut and Western Massachusetts have generously supported the concerts as well with their donations. Gracing the stage are musicians who maintain international performing careers in addition to teaching at colleges and schools in Connecticut. BPMMS also spotlights young musicians whose careers are blossoming. This year’s schedule features a variety of musical styles presented by both instrumental and vocal ensembles. A collaborative Jazz and Poetry event will kick off the season at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 20, when jazz bassist Nat Reeves and his band, with Matt DeChamplain on piano, Josh Bruneau on trumpet and flugelhorn, and Kirk Woodard on drums, join poet Kate Rushin for a return engagement of one of the most popular shows in the history of the BPMMS. Jazz aficionados drove miles to attend the last two performances Nat Reeves played for the series in Granby. Reeves, a top jazz bassist, has built a successful career touring the world with some of the most important figures in jazz in the last

half-century. While not on tour, Reeves is a long-standing professor of jazz at the Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz at the Hartt School of Music in Hartford. Kate Rushin is the author of The Black Back-Ups (Firebrand Books). Recipient of the Rose Low Rome Memorial Poetry Prize and the Grolier Poetry Prize, her work is widely anthologized and has been published in such journals as Callaloo. A Connecticut resident, Rushin has read at Hill-Stead Museum’s Sunken Garden Poetry Festival, the Geraldine Dodge Poetry Festival and Smith College Poetry Center, among many other places. She is a former Fellow of The Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown and a graduate fellow of Cave Canem Foundation. To ring in the holiday spirit, join us on Sunday, Dec 8, at 4 p.m. The New England Ringers, a 15-member handbell ensemble of highly skilled musicians will perform. Elegant arrangements of holiday music on a six-octave set of chimes and bells that range in weight from a tiny seven ounces to a gigantic 12 pounds. will fill the air with holiday joy. Make sure you arrive early for this one! At 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 10, the annual Family Night at the Movies returns for the sixth year, with organist Jason Roberts working his musical magic to accompany a silent film produced in 1923 by Harold Lloyd, titled Safety Last. In it, Lloyd comes up with increasingly risky feats of balance to try to impress his new love. Welcome in the New Year with your children and your grandchildren and see whether you think he used a stunt man or not! The series concludes the season on Sunday, March 1, with a return performance of the renowned choral ensemble CitySingers of Hartford performing its popular Celtic Fire! program. Joining the

September 2019

Granby Cubs 2019 season in review The Granby Cubs men’s baseball teamfinished the regular season 2-15. The team moved up to the 35+ division for the 2019 season and played many close games after playing in the 25+ division in 2018. Highlights of the regular season include the team’s first ever win in East Haven, a 7-3 victory on May 19 and a 14-0, 5-inning, mercy rule win against the Bristol team on June 30. On Aug. 3 the Cubs travelled to RHAM High School to play the Hebron Hops, the #1 ranked team in the division, in a best of three series, in the 1st round of the playoffs. The team battled hard and was ahead 5-4 going into the bottom of the 7th inning, but came up short after three straight doubles by the Hebron batters.

In game two, the Cubs played well, but came up short losing both the game and the series. Up next is the Connecticut Men’s North Senior Baseball League All Star game in September at Dunkin Donuts Park in Hartford. Four players and one coach will represent the Granby Cubs in that game. Check the Granby Cubs Facebook page for date and times as this is the league’s biggest fundraiser with all proceeds going to Wounded Warriors. The team would also like to thank its “double” and “triple” sponsors for the 2019 season: Signature Flight Support, Tim’s Automotive, Route 10 Tire, Carmon Funeral Home and Beacon Mechanical.

My Thoughts on Finding Inner Peace

With all the violence and hatred in our world today, how does one find inner peace? I think to myself, how does one find inner peace? I think to myself, if nations were not greedy, and if we treated each other with respect, that would be a good start for a more peaceful world. Then, as I look out at the birds and squirrels sharing the toast and seeds I’ve offered them this late summer morning, I think, if everyone had enough food, a safe place to sleep at night, and an adequate job to support one’s family, that would go a long way in establishing a sense of peace. In the meantime, I look to Nature— the birds, the flowers, the mountains, the oceans, and the lakes to calm my mind and refresh my soul. Seeing, or even just thinking of these things can bring some sense of peace to a weary world. —Bernadette Gentry

ensemble for this performance will be an array of instrumentalists playing traditional Irish harp, wooden flute, fiddle, guitar, mandolin, concertina, bodhran, double bass, pipe organ and Highland pipes. You will be entranced by the haunting melodies of Ireland, Scotland and Wales, and the beautiful choral arrangements of inspiring poetry. The natural acoustics of the South Church sanctuary make performing in

that space a rewarding experience for the players. As a result, we have a long list of people who are interested in coming to South Church to perform on the series and an even longer list of people who love the concerts. Please save the dates to treat yourself, along with friends and family, to four magnificent musical events on the 2019-2020 season of the Bruce Porter Memorial Music Series.

Corn Maze 151 East Street, which runs between Rts. 10 & 202 and 189 in N. Granby, CT.

Come explore the twists and turns of the Hayes Corn Maze! Answer the questions correctly and you’re off to another section. Guess it wrong and you may be lost forever!

Opens Sept. 14 and runs through Halloween Fridays 4-9 p.m. • Saturdays 12-9 p.m. • Sundays 12-6 p.m. Call for group rates. Last ticket sold 1/2 hour before closing. Please note visitors under the age of 4 must be accompanied by an adult. No dogs allowed.

Come after dark for a totally different experience. Be sure to bring a flashlight!

After Dark Really Rocks! For more info, call 860-653-4157 or check us out on Facebook!

“Your sacred space is where you can find yourself over and over again.” — Joseph Campbell

South Church: Evolving Empathy. Join us some Sunday to discover how cultivating empathy leads to greater understanding. An Open and Affirming Community. All are welcome!

Visit our Farm Store 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sweet Pea Cheese Goat Chevre and Feta • Cow Milk and Yogurt Goat Milk and Yogurt• Goat Milk Soap

Check us out on Facebook!

HOMECOMING IS SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 8th Worship Service & Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Regular Sunday Services start September 15th Worship Services at 8:30 and 10:00 a.m. Sunday school and childcare at 10:00 a.m. 242 Salmon Brook St., Granby, CT / (860) 653-7289 / www.southchurchgranby.org

September 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 15

Granby girl is state swim champ By Coach Jon Levine Margot Levesque, a 10-year-old Granby resident, competed in the Connecticut Swimming’s 2019 Long Course Swimming Championships at Cheshire on July 25–28. Margot is a member of the Aquabears Swim Team and had an outstanding weekend, finishing first in one event, second in four events, and third in one event. Margot scored 104 points, finishing as the second highest point scorer in the state behind one of her teammates. Margot was state champion in the 100-meter breaststroke with a time of 1:28.94, winning the event by over six seconds. She was second in four events including the 50-meter breaststroke at 44.26, 200-meter freestyle

at 2:34.65, 400-meter freestyle at 5:20.85, and 200 individual medley at 2:55.88. Her third place finish was in the 100-meter butterfly at 1:25.73. She is a rapidly improving swimmer and did not even qualify for this meet a year ago. Since she is 10 all winter, she is the top ranked 10/under female swimmer in Connecticut. The Aquabears are a member of USA Swimming, and train at the Loomis Chaffee School in Windsor. The swim team was established in 1987 in Granby, and has set numerous state records and has many nationally ranked swimmers

Margot Levesque. Submitted photo

and even Olympic Trials Qualifiers. For more information about the team, contact Aquabears@cox.net or call 860-944-9463.

Granby baseball captures first district title in 27 years By Andrea Burns The East Granby/Granby Little League 10U all-star team made history in July by bringing home the first district baseball championship since 1992. “Team chemistry is what allowed us to make this historic run,” said Jeff Castle, head coach of the team. “These kids put the team first and individual success second. They grew in confidence with each win and our streak snowballed from there.” The team started the summer with victories against three all-star teams in scrimmages outside of the district before East Granby/Granby Little League 10U all-star baseball going 7-0 in district play. team, left to right. Back row–Assistant coaches A comeback 9-8 win over Garry Roman and Larry Auer, Head Coach Jeff Castle, Simsbury brought them to the Manager Andrew Ellrod, Assistant coaches Jared Burns district championship game and Scott Magennis. Front Row–Assistant Coach Greg where they beat Burlington Teclaw, Tommy Magennis, William Auer, Gunnar Castle, 11-1, and secured a bid to the Thomas Rushin, Jake Teclaw, Aiden Ellrod, Carmelo sectional round. Roman, Oliver Thrall, Braden Burns, Aiden Konieczny, “I am so proud of how the Aidan Hayes. Submitted photo team responded to a demanding district schedule against good competition with the pressure to win,” said Andrew

Ellrod, manager of the team. “They’re a great group of kids who listened well and tried to do everything the coaches asked of them. It was exciting to see the growth and poise of the team to come in and play top-notch baseball.” After losing to Robert A. Cole (Beacon Falls) 9-6 in game one of the sectional round, the team fended off elimination by beating Southington 10-7 to make it to the sectional final for the first time in the league’s history. With only eight teams remaining in the state, their run ended with a 16-5 loss to Southington in the final. The team finished its season with an 8-2 record in tournament play. The pitching rotation achieved an earned run average (ERA) of 2.18 and limited the competition to a batting average against (BAA) of just .189. On the offensive side, consistent hitting from the entire lineup resulted in 8.4 runs per game and a team batting average of .348. “Our biggest challenge was getting these 11 kids to believe they belonged with the upper echelon teams of our district and the sectional tournament,” Castle said. “They proved that and showed how they are tough, gritty and resilient.”

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September 2019

Page 16 The Granby Drummer

September 2019

Start With a Strong Start With a Strong Foundation. Foundation.

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Privacy abounds at this wonderful updated contemporary style home.

Hartland • $264,900

Spacious updated Colonial with a 4-season room and in a great location.

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Granby • $699,000

Luxurious yet comfortable home set on top of the Mountain, this is one of a kind.

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Sun-filled remodeled home with a peaceful backyard and a large patio. NEW LISTING

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Granby • $156,900

Move-in ready vintage home is situated on 1.77 private acres.

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Terrific end unit in Water’s Edge complex with an open floor plan.

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Beautifully renovated farmhouse Colonial on quiet cul-de-sac street.

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East Granby • $175,000

Freshly painted Cape with a level back yard in a good location .

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Custom Built-William Poole designed home with a 1st floor master bedroom.

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Newer construction Ranch with an open floor plan for entertaining and living.

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Picturesque home in a cul-de-sac location with updates galore.

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Beautiful Contemporary house set on almost two acres of manicured grounds.

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Nancy Reardon

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Sprawling custom built Colonial estate with New England charm on 3.93 acres. NEW LISTING

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Remodeled brick Ranch with great curb appeal and an in-ground pool.

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Outstanding 65 acre agricultural property with an antique farmhouse.

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September 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 17

In Praise of the Snout House Our House

Article and photos by Faith Tyldsley

Transforming the front entrance

I’ll light the fire, you place the flowers in the vase that you brought today Staring at the fire for hours and hours…. Our house is a very, very, very fine house with two cats in the yard, Life used to be so hard, Now everything is easy ‘cause of you. —Our House songwriter: Graham Nash; Producers: Crosby, Stills and Nash

Our House became one of Crosby, Stills and Nash’s top 10 songs after its debut in 1970. No wonder: it tapped into our very human desire to have a safe and welcoming retreat to come home to. When it actually comes to making that big purchase, square footage and number of bathrooms, the state of the roof and how old the furnace is become considerations. You can bring the cats and plant the flowers, even buy a house with a fireplace, but you must have a clear deed, safe electrical wiring and skylights free of leaks. Basics in place, one begins to make a house a home.

The author’s house, December 2018

My House When I moved to Granby a year ago, I purchased a small home that met all my needs and most of my wants. It had a private back yard and a wood-burning fireplace. I didn’t have two cats for the yard but my cat Lily preferred it that way. The flowers came with spring and summer. I did not know that I had a snout house, did not know there was such a thing as a snout house, until I googled something along the lines of “improving front of house with protruding garage”. Up came “Curb Appeal for a ‘Snout House’.” The Snout House Arrives As moderately-priced developments began to come on the housing scene in the second half of the twentieth century, there was a need to somehow minimize homes in order to fit them on narrow lots. Thus the garage became grafted onto the front of the main facade, often onto the living room wall. A family of moderate income, who could not afford to own a large lot, now had access to affordable house cum garage in one compact structure.

February 2, 2018

July 4, 2018

Meet the Snout House, a style of dwelling whose curb view presents a garage attached to and extending from the main body of the house towards the street. In early days of developments containing rows of snout houses, the garage could take up a large proportion of the street frontage, often squeezing out the possibility of designing an attractive front yard. Typically, the entrance walkway hugs the side of the garage wall on the way to a front door which is tucked behind the garage extension. While not readily recognized by its less than aesthetic porcine name, the snout house is indeed a type of home construction. Realtors will likely list these houses as “ranches” (what realtor would say, “I have a very nice snout house to show you?”). Similar to ranches, snouts are one-level living, some built on a slab, some with basements. The garage configuration, however, sets them apart from the typical ranch where the garage is set to one side, allowing full display of front door and flanking windows. Front Entrance Inspiration Snouts built on a slab (as mine is) exhibit various extruding pipes and a meter box mounted on the side of the garage that one rubs shoulders with on the way to the front door. These unsightly items result when the heating system must be accommodated in the garage, with respective appendages being tacked on the outside wall. Improving the entrance became an early-on crusade. The happy-ending solution: reconfiguring the front walkway into a gracious curve provided a halfmoon garden space whose background plants chosen for height (such as hollyhocks and hyssop) go far to distract from, if not totally camouflage, the garage wall. Snout Houses in my neck of the woods There are nine snout houses in my neighborhood. They sit on comfortablysized lots, scattered among differing style homes throughout the neighborhood. All nine dwellings were constructed between

August 4, 2019

1973 and 1975 by Vincent Carmine Giuliano of Giuliano Construction (Hartford) who passed away in January of this year. According to his obituary, he was a “prolific” general contractor, overseeing the construction of many apartment and office buildings as well as housing developments in the greater Hartford area. Although the nine homes in our neighborhood share the same construction, Giuliano situated them pleasingly on each lot, allowing for ample driveway and spacious front yard. Differing colors of paint, trim and roof give each its own personality. In addition, the many years since construction has resulted in fully mature landscaping, contributing further to individuality. Owners have planted trees and gardens, added decks and porches and incorporated hardscaping to make these homes their own. Comfortably informal and inviting, these nine snouts provide superlative homes for their families. House naming My British cousins’ homes all have names, such as “The Hollies” and “Lavender Court.” It’s one of those British traditions (think Downton Abbey) that made it over to America despite the revolution. Monticello, Graceland and Fallingwater come to mind (Thomas Jefferson, Elvis Presley, Frank Lloyd Wright respectively). Once the provenance of grand estates and reflective of a family name or of the physical environment, house naming has become popular among the more financially modest. House names these days are apt

O’Brien

to be quirky, communicating humor and personal identity. Online directions are even available as to how to create a catchy moniker, including information on how house names could effect the value of the property and its saleability. My home is now known as “The Snout House.” A pig sits at the end of the garage welcoming visitors. Mail from my family in Singapore comes addressed to my name, ℅ The Snout House. I’m sure some of my friends and acquaintances find it a bit eccentric. I see it as an affirmation of snout houses in general, and as a grateful gesture to a place of contentment and repose.

Welcome to the Snout House.

Nurserymen Open Garden Days August 30, 31 & Sept. 1 Dwarf & Compact Ginkgos for Golden Fall Color

September 13, 14 & 15 Granby Open Farm Day – Saturday

September 27, 28 & 29 Unique Conifers for the Winter Garden

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Page 18 The Granby Drummer

September 2019

Granby Library Association 1869–2019 By Carol Laun, Archivist Salmon Brook Historical Society The Granby Library Association is a unique organization. It has operated and then supported a public library in Granby for 150 years, although it is a private organization. The GLA continued an unbroken chain of library service in Granby Center. 1761 Salmon Brook Publick Library 1821 Granby Library 1849 Granby Literary and Library Association 1869 Granby Library Association A group of nine prominent men from Granby Center obtained a charter for the GLA in 1869. They were authorized to sell the old St. Peter’s Episcopal Church and use the proceeds to erect a building to be used for a library, a school, town meetings and other purposes. A two-story building with a basement was constructed on the site of the old church. “Granby had a great celebration on this occasion. There were public speakers, including Governor Jewell of Hartford. A bower was made from pine boughs and a band played. A double carriage and horses met the Governor and his party at the depot and drove them to Salmon Brook. After the speeches, cake and ice cream was enjoyed.” The Library Building also housed a Select School (private high school) and town meetings were held in a basement room, which was furnished at town expense. In 1872, South Congregational Church was formed and services were held on the first floor of the Library Building—the library was moved upstairs. The building was sold to South Church in 1886. As with many organizations, there is often a lull in operations as the founders age and then reorganize with a younger generation. In 1887, Laura Dibble Bunce brought a group, “The Hartford Amateurs” to Granby to put on a play. The proceeds were used to fund the library. A revised Constitution and Bylaws were written. At first, library members had to pay $1 a year and non-members paid two-cents a week to borrow a book. However, in 1892, it was decided to operate as a free public library, with only fines to be paid by

tardy borrowers. The GLA Board of Directors was responsible for hiring and paying a librarian. It ordered and paid for books and other needed supplies. It held fundraisers to continue to support the library. In 1903, another constitution was adopted. A disastrous fire in 1917 destroyed the South Congregational Church and Library building. The library lost everything except 40 books on loan and 300 new books not yet on the shelves. A week later, the library reopened in the Salmon Brook Street home of the secretary, Edith B. Lockwood. Within 10 months, more than 2,000 books were donated by individuals and other libraries. The South Congregational Church decided to rebuild in its present location and the former site was given to the GLA. A new library was constructed there in 1918, by the children of Laura Bunce, and given to the GLA as a memorial to her. It is now the Visiting Nurses building. The new library was very important in the community. Official town groups and many civic organizations held meetings there. The Salmon Brook Historical Society started in 1945 as the Historical Room in the library basement. Although officially a private library, the Granby Public Library was free to all citizens of Granby and was supported by the Community Fund, town funds and the GLA endowment funds. Lack of adequate space was a constant problem as the town and library services grew. The final chapter for the private library in Granby Center began when the town charter called for the formation of a single Granby Library Board in 1966. This board managed town-wide library services at the public Cossitt Library and by contract with the private GLA. In 1967, the 80th anniversary of the 1887 reorganization, the first major alterations were made in the Granby Public Library building. A gift from Helen Bunce Edwards, daughter of Laura Bunce, funded the new stairs to the children’s room and a new heating system. Finally, after many years of study, debate and postponements, the new

Home of the Granby Public Library 1918 to 1982. Photo courtesy of Salmon Brook Historical Society

Granby Public Library was built on North Granby Road in 1982 and the GLA had its last reorganization. Control of the library was ceded to the town and the GLA became a non-profit organization with endowment funds. The old library property was sold to the Town of Granby for $1. A rather tongue-in-cheek bill was sent to the Granby First Selectman in April 1982. Over 60 years of free library service, $.19 140,000 hours of voluntary service, $.49 6 decades of purchase of books, furnishings, $.27 Real estate, $.05 Total, $1.00 The Selectman wrote a check for the full amount. The GLA did not disappear, but continued as an active, viable organization with a new focus. Its goal was to be good stewards of the GLA endowment funds and manage its investments to benefit the library. It specializes in supporting projects and programs not in the library budget. The list includes funding the new circulation desk, display case and bookshelves in the children’s room, supplying DVD racks, an E-reader, some of the new reading terrace furniture, help-

ing to purchase more book shelves and create an area for study and computer use, sponsoring the children’s summer reading program, helping with the computer connection to other libraries as well as adding workroom amenities for the library staff. In addition, the GLA provided funds for collection updates to the geography and travel section, funded purchases for the book club, bought large print and reference books for the Connecticut shelf and also paid to have books rebound. The GLA continues to sponsor cultural and social events at the library. Through the years, library needs expanded and changed, but the GLA was there for computers, audio books and DVDs as well as print books. The list of GLA projects and gifts could go on for pages and the ways it has helped the library is immeasurable. GLA members also put a plaque on the old library building to commemorate its place in Granby history. A library is a place for the community to gather, for children to do their homework and for a variety of programs. GLA support enhances all of these activities. Happy Birthday!

Chorale invites young poets to submit entries

To celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2020, the Farmington Valley Chorale has commissioned a new musical composition by Ellen Gilson Voth. For lyrics, the composer hopes to incorporate an original poem by a local teen with poetry of Connecticut’s past Poet Laureate Rennie McQuilken. The chorale invites poetry lovers between ages 12 and 19 to submit an original poem, in any style, for this competition. Suggested themes and contest rules are posted at farmingtonvalleychorale.org. Prizes include Amazon gift cards and tickets to the premiere performance in Simsbury on May 9. Submissions by email to info@farmingtonvalleychorale. org must be received no later than Oct. 1.

September 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 19

TOOTH TALK By Michael Ungerleider D.M.D

Q: My dentist retired and my new dentist is telling me I need a bunch of dental work. Is there any way to get a second opinion? A: Of course! We always give free second opinions Many times a young dentist is very excited to treat everything he or she sees. After all, every ethical doctor wants to do the best for their patients. Unfortunately, a more seasoned dentist may have been monitoring or watching certain areas of concern. The senior dentist can monitor the changes and make recommendations for the proper time for intervention. The young new dentist is seeing something first as a snapshot in time, with no reference to the history of the tooth or condition. Your dentist should be able to provide you with intraoral photos or a scan to show you what is in your mouth and involve you in the treatment decisions. If you ever need a second opinion, give our office a call. We are here to help you make the right choices for your oral health. At the Granby Dental Center, we also offer “Smile Vision,” which allows us to take a photograph of your current smile and then alter the photo on the computer to show you what you could look like with whiter, straighter teeth! Are you curious? Come in and ask us about SMILE VISION! CALL THIS MONTH AND ASK FOR A FREE SMILE VISION IMAGING. The doctors and staff of the Granby Dental Center invite you to see all of the new and exciting advances in modern dentistry at our office. Computerized Dental Radiography allows us to lower radiation doses to our patients by 50-90%! At the Granby Dental Center, we offer CEREC, an amazing technology that allows us to fabricate porcelain crowns in just one visit! This revolutionary CAD CAM unit allows us to preserve more natural tooth structure and restore the tooth to 100% of its original strength! We are the only office in Granby to offer Cone Beam CT technology, allowing us to see 3-D images instantly. This aids in diagnosis and planning for Implants, and assures that the Doctor has a more accurate view to detect hidden pathology. If you would like a second opinion or have a question you would like answered, or would just like a tour of our modern office to view our sterilization procedures and to meet our friendly, caring staff, please contact us, or visit our website:

www.granbydentalcenter.com Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/GranbyDentalCenter SCAN THIS SYMBOL WITH YOUR DROID OR iPHONE FOR A CHANCE TO WIN!

Michael A. Ungerleider, DMD Vipasha Desai, DDS 41 Hartford Avenue, Granby 860-653-3220 Visit our website at: www.granbydentalcenter.com ADVERTISEMENT

Granby Public Schools names 2019-20 Teacher of the Year By Christopher Tranberg, Assistant Superintendent The Granby Public Schools proudly announced Dr. Heidi MacDonald as the 2019-2020 Teacher of the Year during closing ceremonies on June 14. To help celebrate her achievement and contributions to Granby students, she was joined on stage by her husband Scott and daughter Lyric. MacDonald, currently the school psychologist at Wells Road Intermediate School, makes every effort to build relationships with all students at Wells Road. A dedicated member of Granby’s learning community for the past 15 years, she continues to make a difference in the community every day. MacDonald fills Wells Road with positive energy and provides major support for students, staff and families. Jennifer Miller, a Wells Road colleague, described MacDonald as “An innovative and talented professional who always seeks out the best opportunity for kids and supports colleagues so they, in turn, can do what is best for kids. She is an inspiration!” MacDonald’s smile, school spirit, and reputation for sport-

ing a whimsical t-shirt or costume when least expected, are hallmarks of her joy and dedication. MacDonald works very closely with a subset of the Wells Road population. However, she also makes a every effort to get to know all of the students at Wells Road Intermediate School. To start the year, Heidi spends time with each student individually to make sure all are feeling supported and connected to the school. Her room attracts many visitors. This may be partially attributed to Myrtle the guinea pig, a calming force who adores students and the healthy snacks they provide throughout the day. MacDonald is also part of the drama club production team and leader of the environmental and sign language clubs. She has also been known to facilitate amazing learning clusters as part of the Schoolwide Enrichment Model. MacDonald is an educator who builds relationships that transcend Wells Road Intermediate School. It is not uncommon for her to receive calls, visits, and invitations to share in the celebrations and achievements of former students. Her

Dr. Heidi MacDonald

interactions with students form trusting relationships that last a lifetime. As Granby’s Teacher of the Year, we look forward to Heidi’s recognition at the Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts in November, along with all other Teacher of the Year recipients from Connecticut towns.

The Connecticut Historical Society elects new trustees

The Connecticut Historical Society (CHS) membership has elected two new members and re-elected an incumbent to its Board of Trustees. Portia Corbett of Farmington, (re-elected), Chester Paul Beach, Jr. of Granby, and Sara Champion of Ridgefield, were all elected to a threeyear term expiring at the 2022 Annual Meeting. As members of the board, they will help the CHS fulfill its mission to “connect you and the story of Connecticut” through exhibits, special Chester Paul Beach, Jr. events, guest speakers and research opportunities. Their three-year-term appointments were made during the CHS’s 194th annual meeting on May 20. The membership also elected officers

for 2019-2020. They are Barbara Kiefer, President (West Hartford); Fiona Vernal, First Vice President (Manchester); Henry M. Zachs, Second Vice President (Hartford); Lawrence V. Mowell, Third Vice President (Pebble Beach, CA); Stephen L. Nightingale, Secretary (West Hartford); William Weissenburger, Treasurer (Bloomfield); and Bichop J. Nawrot, Immediate Past President (Bloomfield). The 194th Annual Meeting was also when the Connecticut Historical Society’s new CEO, Robert Kret, was introduced to the membership. The former director of the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Kret took the helm of the CHS on May 13. Kret began his career in museum administration at the Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities, Boston, Massachusetts. He later served as director of the Ella Sharp Museum in Jackson, Michigan, the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum in Wausau, Wisconsin, and the Miami University Art Museum in Oxford, Ohio. Prior to joining the O’Keeffe Museum, Kret was director of the Hunter Museum of American Art in

Chattanooga, Tennessee for a decade. He earned a Master of Arts degree in History Museum Studies from the Cooperstown Graduate Program of the State University of New York at Oneonta, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in History, with a Political Science minor, from the University of Detroit in Michigan. The Connecticut Historical Society (CHS.org) is a private, independent, notfor-profit educational organization that includes a museum, library and the Edgar F. Waterman Research Center. Founded in 1825, the CHS is the state’s official historical society and one of the oldest in the nation. The CHS has collected more than four million manuscripts, graphics, books, artifacts and other historical materials related to Connecticut’s social, cultural, and family history which are available to the public on-site at One Elizabeth Street in Hartford, off-site at other locations, and online at chs.org. The CHS is one of more than 200 Smithsonian Affiliates across the country.

Page 20 The Granby Drummer

September 2019

Salmon Brook— officially Wild and Scenic By Dave Tolli After 12 years of study, the Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook have been designated by Congress as part of the Partnership National Wild and Scenic Rivers Program administered by the National Park Service. The National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 was enacted by Congress in order to preserve and maintain designated rivers for the enjoyment of present and future generations. As of November 2018, 209 rivers, totaling 12,754 miles of river in 40 states and Puerto Rico, had Wild and Scenic status. This Wild and Scenic designation provides for the creation of an advisory committee and will ultimately provide federal funding of projects that will protect and enhance the special resource values for which these rivers were designated Wild and Scenic. In 2007, representatives from the 10 towns these watercourses flow through, along with representatives from the Farmington River Watershed Association, Salmon Brook Watershed Association, the Pequabuck River Watershed Association,Stanley Black and Decker (owner of the Rainbow Dam in Windsor), and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection formed a study committee to determine whether or not the two watercourses qualified for a Wild and Scenic designation application. Untold hours were spent by these vol-

unteers preparing the required input for all the various sections of the application. Several committee members made trips to Washington, D.C. to present the committee’s case to Congress. Representative Esty and Senators Blumenthal and Murphy gave much needed legislative support to the project. One of Senator Murphy’s staff was instrumental in shepherding the application through the various steps necessary in order to receive the designation. The Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook Committee (an advisory management committee) is being formed to oversee maintaining and enhancing the special qualities of these rivers. The Granby representatives to the advisory management committee are Eric Lukingbeal and Fred Jones, alternate. Dave Tolli will be representing the Salmon Brook Watershed Association. Eric and Dave were also on the study committee along with Caroline Flint, who also represented Granby. Anyone interested in learning more about the Wild and Scenic designation is invited to attend a presentation by Sally Rieger at 7 p.m. on Oct. 3 in the Granby Public Library. Sally was the chair of the study committee and did a superlative job keeping all the subcommittees on track and the entire project moving forward. She is also instrumental in forming the advisory committee. More information can be found at: lowerFarmingtonriver.org.

Five reasons you need to attend Granby’s Open Farm day On Saturday, Sept. 14, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m., over a dozen Granby farms will open their gates to the public. Experience the variety of agriculture that Granby has to offer. Pick up a passport at your first farm and collect a stamp at each visit to be entered in a drawing. You’re eligible for prizes with just one stamp. Pick up a Farm Map at local businesses or download one online at www. granbyag.org. For more information, follow Granby Ag on Facebook. 1. You need to know what is available Almost everything you need is grown right here in Granby, but do you know when or where to get it? From soap to milk to meat to veggies, farmers in Granby grow and make many things you need. Find out how to buy these products, and when they are in season, or when you should be loading up for the year. 2. You need to know who your farmer is and know how your food is grown Open Farm Day is your opportunity to talk directly to the farmers who grow your food. Ask questions, find out how they work, how their raise their plants

and animals. Sept. 14 is the day you get to see all that in action. 3. You need to be able to tell other people this information In order to support local farms and land in our town being used for agriculture, we all need to be marketers for each farm. Use the information you learn at Open Farm Day to educate other family, neighbors and friends. 4. You need to share this with your kids We all need to know where our food comes from in order to make educated decisions about what to eat, and it is especially important to share this with your kids. This hand-on, interactive way of learning – by being at the farm, and asking questions of the farmer, is such a great way for kids to learn. 5. You need to have fun (the old fashioned kind) With everything from pony rides to face painting and farmer talks, Open Farm Day will be fun for everyone in the family. The farms have so much to offer in terms of enjoying the beauty of Granby.

Granby Public Schools Free or Reduced-price Lunch Program

Children from families whose income is at or below the levels shown are eligible for free or reduced-price meals or free milk. Application forms are being sent home with a letter to parents. To apply for free or reduced-price meals or free milk, households should fill out the application and return it to the school. Additional copies are available at the principal’s office at each school or on the district website under food service (breakfast and lunch). Only one application is required per household and an application for free or reduced-price benefits cannot be approved unless it contains complete eligibility information as indicated on the application and instructions. The information provided on the application is confidential and will be used only for the purposes of determining eligibility and for administration and enforcement of the lunch, breakfast and milk programs. Additionally, all schoolaged children in income-eligible households can receive school meal benefits regardless of a child’s immigration status and the district/school does not release information for immigration-related purposes in the usual course of operating the CNPs. Note that the district MAY share your eligibility information with education, health, and nutrition programs to help them evaluate, fund, or determine benefits for their programs, auditors for program reviews, and law enforcement officials to help them look into violations of program rules. This information may also be verified at any time during the school year by school or other program officials. Applications may be submitted at any time during the year. For up to 30 operating days into the new school year, eligibility from the previous year will continue within the same local educational agency (LEA). When the carry-over period ends, unless the household is notified that their children are directly certified or the household submits an application that is approved, the children must pay full price for school meals and the school will not send a reminder or a notice of expired eligibility.

No application is required if the district directly certifies a child based on a household member receiving assistance from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or the Temporary Family Assistance (TFA) program. All children in these households are eligible for free meal benefits. Households receiving assistance under the SNAP/TFA programs will be notified of their eligibility and their children will be provided free benefits unless the household notifies the determining official that it chooses to decline benefits. If any children were not listed on the eligibility notice, the household should contact the district or school to have free meal benefits extended to those children. Households receiving SNAP or TFA benefits for their children should only submit an application if they are not notified of their eligibility by 9/15/18. Some children may be directly certified for free or reduced-price meals based on Medicaid (HUSKY). No application is required if the district directly certifies a child based on Medicaid (HUSKY). All children in these households are eligible for free or reduced-priced meal benefits. Households receiving assistance under Medicaid (HUSKY) will be notified of their eligibility and their children will be provided free or reduced-price benefits accordingly, unless the household notifies the determining official that it chooses to decline benefits. If any children were not listed on the eligibility notice, the household should contact the district or school to have free or reduced-price meal benefits extended to those children. If a child is not directly certified, the household should complete a free and reduced-price meal application form. The application for the SNAP or TFA households require the SNAP or TFA case number and the households may be asked to provide proof of the SNAP or TFA case number. The signature of an adult household member is also required.

FREE MEALS/MILK

Children in households participating in WIC may be eligible for free or reduced-price meals. Please send in an application or contact the determining official for more information. When known to the district/school, households will be notified of any child’s eligibility for free meals if the individual child is Other Source Categorically Eligible because the child is categorized as either: Homeless; runaway as defined by law and determined by the district’s or school’s homeless liaison; or enrolled in an eligible Head Start or pre-kindergarten class as defined by law. Households with children who are categorically eligible under Other Source Categorically Eligible Programs should complete an application and check-off the relevant box. Questions should be directed to the determining official. For any child not listed on the eligibility notice, the households should contact the school or determining official about any child also eligible under one of these programs or should submit an income application for the other children. Households notified of their children’s eligibility must contact the determining official or school if it chooses to decline the free meal benefits. If households/children are not notified by the district/school of their free meal benefits and they receive benefits under Assistance Programs or under Other Source Categorically Eligible Programs, the parent/guardian should contact the determining official or their school. Foster children that are under the legal responsibility of a foster care agency or court, are categorically eligible for free meals. A foster parent does not have to complete a free/reduced meal application if they can submit a copy of the legal document or legal court order showing that the child is a foster child. Additionally, a foster child may be included as a member of the foster family if the foster family chooses to also apply for benefits. If the foster family is not eligible for free or reduced-price meal

Number in Family

Annual Gross Income

Monthly Gross Income

Twice Per Month Gross Income

Every Two Weeks Gross Income

Weekly Gross Income

Number in Family

Annual Gross Income

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

16,237 21,983 27,729 33,475 39,221 44,967 50,713 56,459 + 5,746

1,354 1,832 2,311 2,790 3,269 3,748 4,227 4,705 + 479

677 916 1,156 1,395 1,635 1,874 2,114 2,353 + 240

625 846 1,067 1,288 1,509 1,730 1,951 2,172 + 221

313 423 534 644 755 865 976 1,086 + 111

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

23,107 31,284 39,461 47,638 55,815 63,992 72,169 80,346 + 8,177

Each Add’l Family Member

benefits, it does not prevent a foster child from receiving free meal benefits. Note however, that a foster child’s free eligibility does not automatically extend to all students in the household. Application forms for all other households require a statement of total household income, household size and names of all household members. The last four digits of the social security number of an adult household member must be included or a statement that the household member does not have one. The adult household member must also sign the application certifying that the information provided is correct. Under the provisions of the policy for determining eligibility for free and reduced-price meals, the Assistant to the Business Manager, montagnak@granby.k12.ct.us will review applications and determine eligibility. If a parent is dissatisfied with the ruling of the determining official, he/ she may wish to discuss the decision with the determining official on an informal basis. If he/she wishes to make a formal appeal, a request either orally or in writing, may be made to Karen Montagna, 15B North Granby Road, Granby, CT 06035, 860-844-5253, for a hearing to appeal the decision. The policy contains an outline of the hearing procedure. Each school and the central office of the school district has a copy of the policy, which may be reviewed by an interested party. If a household member becomes unemployed or if household size changes at any time, the family should contact the school to file a new application. Such changes may make the children of the household eligible for reduced-price meals, free meals, or free milk, if the family income falls at or below the levels shown in the Income Guidelines. Questions regarding the application process may be directed to the determining official at 860-844-5253.

REDUCED-PRICE MEALS Monthly Gross Income

Twice Per Month Gross Income

Every Two Weeks Gross Income

Weekly Gross Income

1,926 2,607 3,289 3,970 4,652 5,333 6,015 6,696 + 682

963 1,304 1,645 1,985 2,326 2,667 3,008 3,348 + 341

889 1,204 1,518 1,833 2,147 2,462 2,776 3,091 + 315

445 602 759 917 1,074 1,231 1,388 1,546 + 158

The above income calculations are made based on the following formulas: Monthly income is calculated by dividing the annual income by 12; twice monthly income is computed by dividing annual income by 24; income received every two weeks is calculated by dividing annual income by 26; and weekly income is computed by dividing annual income by 52. All numbers are rounded upward to the next whole dollar.

September 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 21

Summer’s bounty, and winter shares abundant, too Holcomb Farm’s CSA members, Farm Store customers, restaurants who source fresh produce from us, and organizations that benefit from the donor-supported Fresh Access food program, have all seen what a wet spring and consistent, professional farm-management can do: fill the fields with fresh, local food that we will be harvesting right through October. Not a Member? Join Us Anyway You don’t have to be a member to enjoy the delicious veggies coming from our fields. Be sure to stop by the CSA Barn at 111 Simsbury Road to do your fresh food shopping, including access to provisions from many neighboring farms. Also, be sure to add Holcomb Farm to your list of “must visit” farms on Granby Open Farm Day, Sept. 14. The schedule at the CSA barn that day includes: Join the morning harvest crew at 10 a.m., take a farm tour at 12 noon, enjoy a cooking demo with Chef Chris Prosperi of Metro Bis at 2 p.m. Winter Meals as Fresh and Local as Summer Picnics Farmer Joe O’Grady says the bounty this year will make the Winter Shares even more abundant than usual, and they should be available for online purchase at our website in September. New England storage crops—beets, potatoes, carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, rutabaga, and more—get sweeter over time. Thanks to our greenhouses, the shares will be augmented with fresh greens—spinach, Napa cabbage, arugula, lettuce mix, baby kale and more. There will be five pick-ups, beginning in November and stretching until February, and the share price is the same as last year: $375. These shares always sell out, so sign up soon if you want your winter and holiday meals to be as fresh and local as your summer picnics. It Takes a Village—of Volunteers The Friends of Holcomb Farm had the opportunity to give special thanks to some of the volunteers—our own “posse”—who have put their time and talents into rebuilding the CSA barn and farm store utilizing grants from the State and the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving. The Volunteer Appreciation Barbeque honored Jim Lofink, Ralph Eustis, Dave Tolli, Dave Desiderato and Eliot Ubryan. Local Granby artist, Jean-Luc Godard used some of the barn boards that are over 100 years old to make signs honoring their labors.

At the same event, the Friends awarded its highest volunteer honor—the Bud Murtha Award—to Ralph Eustis. After retiring from his construction business, Eustis spent 10 years volunteering at Holcomb Farm. He has been instrumental in all construction projects, including barn siding, greenhouses, a storage shed, and coolers. He also maintained all the farm equipment (from tractors to heating equipment). His efforts were essential in providing oversight of all “in-kind” volunteer work that allowed the Friends to obtain $100,000 in grants to upgrade many aspects of the CSA. Like Bud Murtha himself, and previous awardwinners (Jim Allen and Peggy Lareau), Eustis’s volunteer service epitomizes what makes Holcomb Farm, and Granby in general, a special community. Sincere thanks to him and his wife, Karen, who has also contributed many volunteer hours over the years. Tree Trail and Meadows Continue to Emerge In June, we announced the development of a Tree Trail, with mowed paths, information signs and tree labels, inviting everyone in the community to explore and enjoy even more of the town’s Holcomb Farm property. This summer, the Friends endorsed a proposal and donation from a long-time supporter to restore the southeast field, along Simsbury Road. Check it out as you drive by; even better, park your car and take a walk. The meadows are filled with wildflowers and will be right through the fall. Save The Date: Harvest Dinner and Silent Auction Back again, and bigger and better than ever, the Friends of Holcomb Farm will host the annual Harvest Dinner on Saturday, Nov. 9, at the new Metro Bis Restaurant location at the old Ensign House in Simsbury. This authentic “farmto-table” meal, expertly prepared by Chef Chris Prosperi using all the great bounty from Holcomb Farm, is the single most important fundraiser for our Fresh Access program. Fresh Access annually provides over 8,000 pounds of fresh produce to individuals and organizations that might not otherwise have access to local, chemical-free food. Locally, this includes Granby’s weekly Waste-NotWant-Not dinners, the Senior Center, and individual families, through Granby Social Services. Other institutions in the greater Farmington Valley and Hartford

Ralph Eustis, second from right, shows off his custom-made Bud Murtha Award, made by artist Avis Cherichetti. Ralph is joined by (from left) Karen Eustis, Shirley Murtha, and Jenny Emery. Photo by Cathy Browning Walking paths in the East Field meadow have emerged thanks to dedicated volunteer mower and generous neighbor, Walter Ford. Photo by Eric Lukingbeal

Volunteer Dave Tolli shows off his barnboard award, made by Jean-Luc Godard, and presented by the Friends of Holcomb Farm. Photo by Shirley Murtha

Chicory (far left), ironweed (near left) and Joe-Pye weed (above) flourish in Holcomb Farm’s meadows, thanks to the dedicated work of the Friends’ Stewardship Committee. Photos by Eric Lukingbeal

areas, including the Wheeler Clinic and the Healing Meals Community Project, also are served. The silent auction offers myriad opportunities to bid on great stuff from local contributors. Last year’s bidding opportunities included original Laura Eden art, weekends in vacation homes, a professionally guided fishing trip, gift certificates to local restaurants, yoga and

massage sessions and much more. If you have any goods or services to contribute, please contact us at cathy@holcombfarm.org. As a nonprofit organization, the Friends of Holcomb Farm rely on your generous donations to support charitable programming. Finally, watch for tickets to the dinner to go on sale in October through the website.

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Page 22 The Granby Drummer

September 2019

Retired Granby teacher expands work for education in Nigeria

Kogum River site, showing old and new buildings

Retired Granby teacher, Elaine Chagnon, recently completed her tenth trip to Nigeria, working on behalf of Africa Education Partnership (AEP), a nonprofit organization established in 2011. Its goal is to build and renovate schools and provide support and training to teachers so that a quality education is made available for all students, regardless of tribe or religion. Its mission is to promote reconciliation through education. The first project, Graceland International School, is a two-building school complex in Gusau, Zamfara State, Nigeria, and has been running since 2014. AEP, in conjunction with its Nigerian partners, completed a third building, which was dedicated in October 2018. This structure houses a computer lab, library, teacher work room and administrative offices. The second floor has a large hall, used for the administration of the West Africa Education Council exams, similar to SAT exams. The school is accredited with the local government and is a regional test site for these exams. With Grace International School up and running, the AEP was seeking a new project. During the second leg of the October 2018 trip, Chagnon and her husband Bob made a fact-finding trip to Kafanchan, Kaduna State, to assess the needs at five different school sites in that district. They were drawn to that area by a friendship with Bishop Markus Dogo, who was a champion for education but short of the resources needed to maintain five school locations. Two of the sites housed pre-

school-grade 12 facilities, complete with dormitories, located within city limits. The other three locations were in rural villages and provide education through grade 6. Chagnon toured each of the sites with the education committee members to assess needs. Conditions were especially harsh at the rural schools. Being several hours out of town, it was difficult travel and the limited resources were never enough. As a teacher, Chagnon was moved to tears at the conditions under which teachers and students were working. At one site in particular, Kogum River, the buildings were literally falling down around the students. There was no access to water, toilets, or electricity. Desks were old and splintered; teachers worked without any teaching aides or games for the children. Yet students and teachers arrived each day to learn together. Chagnon vowed to improve conditions there and upon her report, the AEP board voted to send the funding for renovations of the first of two buildings at the Kogum River site. In addition, a presentation to the AvonCanton Rotary Club secured funding for an over-sized borehole that would serve not only the school, but the surrounding Kogum River village of about 1,000 residents. The only access to water at the time was the river, polluted by animals and chemicals from a mining operation. The work in this area started in January 2019. When Chagnon returned this May to assess the progress and work with teachers

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Dedication of the well for clean water at Kogum River. Submitted photos

she was stunned at the transformation. The first school building at Kogum River was totally redone, with locking window frames and doors, tiled floors, new roof and ceilings, and freshly painted walls and exterior. There was enough money for new, heavy-duty desks for the entire building, all at a cost of around $9,000. She was also able to meet with teachers and share ideas and resources in the newly renovated building. A dedication ceremony for the renovated school building and the borehole was facilitated by AEP partner Bishop Markus Dogo and Chagnon was given the honor of cutting the ribbons for both. She was also able to turn on the tap at

the borehole, releasing a stream of clean water. The borehole has two 5,000-liter tanks and a generator to run the pump. Renovations have just begun on the second building at the Kogum River site, with anticipated completion during the first week in September. With available funding, the next project will be to dig wells at the other two school sites. AEP will work to raise money to provide toilets at each of the rural sites, a cost of about $6,000 each. To make a donation or for more information, visit africaep.org or contact Elaine Chagnon at 860-930-8703 or africaedupartnership@ gmail.com

A presentation of the work being done in the Kafanchan district of Nigeria by Africa Education Partnership (AEP), a 501(C)3 organization, will be presented on Tuesday, Oct. 22, 7 to 9 p.m., in the Gathering Room at Salmon Brook Park House. Guest speakers will be Bishop and Mrs. Markus Dogo, introduced by Elaine Chagnon. All are invited to attend this free event. For more information please visit africaep.org or contact Elaine Chagnon at 860-930-8703 or africaedupartnership@gmail.com

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Better Together: Climbing Mt. Washington By Ken Schulz Andrew Wichmann and Pastor Clark Pfaff attend church together at the Valley Brook Community Church in North Granby. Last summer Wichmann gave Pfaff a book called I’ll Push You. It’s the story of two friends, one who is in a wheelchair, and their 500-mile hiking trip. As he was reading the book, Pfaff thought about the annual Valley Brook Men’s Ministry hiking trip. It’s a weekend retreat every summer that culminates with a hike up Mt. Washington in New Hampshire. Men of all ages and abilities go on the trip with some making the four-mile hike with 4,000 feet of vertical gain on foot and others driving their cars up. An avid hiker of the White Mountains, Pfaff also read about a hike with three wheelchair hikers to one of the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) huts in New Hampshire. Inspired by these stories, he

wondered if Wichmann would be interested in the next Mt. Washington hike (webhost.bridgew.edu/jhuber/readings/ trailblazing_in_a_wheelchair.html). While taking a wheelchair up the four-mile trail to the summit of Mt. Washington would likely be beyond the group’s abilities, getting to the summit visitor’s center by car and taking Wichmann the last 50 feet would be an incredible experience. Not to mention the opportunity to explore other trails in the area. So Pfaff ran the idea by trip leader, Ken Schulz, who was just as excited. When they extended an invitation to Wichmann, he immediately said yes and planning started almost a year out from the hike. Wichmann, who is 27 years old, was born with spina bifida, which is a birth defect of the spine, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. What most people don’t realize is he is only physically disabled; often people make assumptions about his

situation. Wichmann said, “I started going to Valley Brook Community Church three-years ago, which changed my life. I met many amazing people who I now consider family.” Thanks to his church family and to the adaptive rental equipment offered by Northeast Passage (nepassage.org), Wichmann’s world was about to expand. On Aug. 2, 2019, day one of two, he saw a moose and two waterfalls. The Motion Concepts Terra Trek was fitted with wider knobby tires and rickshaw poles making it possible for the guys to get him over steps, boulders, and rough terrain that they normally couldn’t have managed.

The AMC’s focus on making accessibility a priority was another key to making this trip a success. The group stayed at the AMC’s Joe Dodge Lodge (outdoors. org); accommodations included first floor access and wheelchair ramps. Wichmann got to experience a different part of the world most of us take for granted. It has also opened our eyes to new possibilities thanks in part to new technology and a growing community of people willing to reach out and make a difference. Valley Brook holds services on Sunday mornings at 9:15 and 11 a.m. Learn more about the church at www.valleybrook.cc.

CTVV Notes Connecticut’s municipal service provider Joe DeLong, the executive director and CEO of the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM), speaks with Susan Patricelli Regan, host of CT Valley Views, regarding the diverse services provided by the organization to the 169 towns and cities of the State. CCM represents the municipalities at the General Assembly before the executive branch and regulatory agencies. In addition, it acts in an official capacity in the courts and federal venues in conjunction with the National League of Cities and has been doing so for the past 50 years. If you wish to be a wellinformed Connecticut citizen in the dynamics of the state’s support system to its cities or you want to become more knowledgeable in the benefits CCM provides, you will enjoy this CTVV segment: youtu.be/ dG2R2SxNWQ0. Also visit CCM’s website: ccm-ct.org. See all of CTVV’s programs at Joe DeLong, Executive Director and CEO of CCM and ctvalleyviews.com Susan Patricelli Regan

CTVV-Long term care, estate planning component David Guttchen, director for the Connecticut Partnership for Long Term Care, has been a frequent guest on CT Valley Views with Host Susan Patricelli Regan due to the program’s relevance not only to the quality of life for Connecticut citizens but also germane to protection of an individual’s life savings and retirement planning. Long Term Care is one of CT Valley Views most often watched segments. If you have seen the previous interviews, this will be a refresher course, but if not, every aging Connecticut resident and close extended family should be educated on this critical element to managing fiscal security should you become incapacitated and require care assisted services. See the show at www.ctvalleyviews.com Additionally, you can contact The CT Partnership for Long Term Care @ www. ctpartnership.org or call 1-800-547-3443.

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Page 24 The Granby Drummer

What’s for supper?

Grilled Shrimp with Lemon and Oregano!

September 2019

Animal Talk Dr. John Violette, DVM

By Pamela Scherrer It’s August and the corn is as high as an elephant’s eye. It’s also time for cookouts, but what if you are sick of burgers and hotdogs to go with your corn on the cob? Well, luckily, my sister-in-law is an amazing cook and she shared this recipe with me and it is both simple and delicious!! The recipe instructions are for grilling; however, I have also cooked them in the oven on a pan with edges so the juices don’t drip. Grilled Shrimp with Lemon and Oregano Ingredients: 3 lbs. large or jumbo shrimp in shell (uncooked) 4 large garlic cloves ¾ tsp. salt 5 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice ½ tsp. black or white pepper ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil ¼ cup finely chopped fresh oregano 2 lemons cut into 6 wedges each Directions: Snip through shells of the shrimp along middle of back using kitchen shears, exposing vein and leaving tail intact. Devein the shrimp, and remove the excess shell. Dressing: Mince and mash garlic into a paste with the salt using a large heavy knife or a mortar and pestle. Transfer to a blender along with the lemon juice and pepper and blend till smooth. With blender running, add oil in a slow stream, blending until emulsified. Transfer dressing to a bowl and stir in the chopped oregano. Prepare grill for cooking with medium-hot charcoal (moderate heat for gas grill). Toss the shrimp with ¼ cup of the prepared dressing in a large bowl and marinate for 15 minutes. Reserve remaining dressing for after cooking (note: do not marinate more than 15 minutes). Wrap the shrimp in aluminum foil and grill for 6-8 minutes (check shrimp and cook a few minutes longer if necessary) Shrimp should be opaque all the way through, not translucent. When done serve with the remaining dressing and lemon wedges. Buon Appetito!!

Behavior tips for your new puppy As veterinarians we see new puppies everyday. It is always fun and exciting to work with owners as they introduce the puppy to its new home. In addition to conversations about preventive healthcare (vaccines, nutrition, deworming schedules, heartworm and flea/tick control, spay/neuter) there are lots of questions about behavior issues and husbandry. These behavior concerns can be terrifying to the owners. There are many opinions in the world about house training, socialization, puppy mouthing etc. Many basic training methods are punishment-based and should be avoided. Studies have shown that pets with unaddressed behavior problems are the individuals that are most likely to end up in shelters. These cast-offs are often adolescent dogs who were never properly socialized. Socialization is a period of development that spans from 3-16 weeks of age. It is critical that the new owner allow the puppy to explore the sights and sounds of the outside world and let the puppy become acquainted with other dogs, cats, and humans, etc. During this period, the puppy learns how to communicate and develops confidence. This is the important time for owners to be positive and set the puppy up for success by planning safe, relaxed, fun, experiences. Passing the puppy around and attending noisy and scary events is not a good idea. Dog

parks, pet stores, doggy daycare facilities are all off limits. Remember the socialization window closes at 16 weeks so plan your puppies experiences carefully. Keeping a positive attitude is the best approach. Moving slowly and speaking in soft, encouraging tones is recommended. Puppy classes are fine after 16 weeks and be sure to avoid “balanced” trainers who may suggest outdated practices such as choke collars, “alpha rolls,” and intimidation. The veterinary staff in many hospitals are now experienced in “fear free” techniques to ensure that the puppies are treated with kindness and compassion. These methods include high-quality treats (cheese, peanut butter, chicken) to reduce stress. There are a multitude of books and materials available for new puppy owners. It can be quite confusing with all the differing opinions. Here are the best books written by veterinary professionals: Perfect Puppy in Seven Days by Sophia Yin DVM; Before and After Getting Your Puppy by Ian Dunbar DVM; Puppy Start Right by Kenneth Martin DVM. Clients with new puppies should rely on their veterinary caregivers to give the best behavioral advice. Please be sure to ask questions at the early puppyhood preventative appointments. Remember to stay positive.

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Browse & Borrow Granby Public Library Main Branch Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Tuesday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Cossitt Branch Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday: 3 – 8 p.m. Saturday: 2 – 5 p.m. Holiday Closing Both libraries will be closed on Monday, Sept. 2. To register for any program call 860844-5275, email gplibrary@granby-ct. gov or register on the website, granbyct.gov/library. Just click on the Program and Events Calendar tab and select the programs you want to attend. Of course you can still call or visit the library to sign up for programs, talks, activities and special events. We encourage you to take a look at the calendar today so you don’t miss out.

Programs for Adults, Teens and Tweens

Our Connecticut River—From Sea To Source: Thursday, Sept. 5, 6:30–7:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. Embark on an inland waterway journey with historian Kelvin Cole. Hear about those who traveled the remarkable 410 mile-long natural resource and made their livelihood along its banks. Please register. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library and Granby Land Trust. Friday Fitness Sampler: Fridays, Sept. 6, 13, 20 and 27, 9–10 a.m. at the Main Branch. Curious about different ways to practice healthy fitness for body and mind? Learn about it in the quiet, pre-opening hours at the library. Each week features a chance to sample a different modality with a local, certified instructor. Try yoga and meditation with Kristal Fiorentino, learn about sustainable nutrition with Deb Orosz, and explore qi gong and tai chi with Marcey Hickey. Registration required. Free. Ukulele Summer Send Off: Saturday, Sept. 7, 1–2 p.m. at the Main Branch. The library’s You Can Uke! group performs with the band Snapback on the patio in a farewell-to-summer musical tribute. All ages are invited to enjoy light music and light refreshments. This is a feel good, everyone-gets-to-participate event, and singing along is definitely encouraged. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Program moves indoors in inclement weather. Registration encouraged. Cossitt Writers Group: Tuesdays, Sept. 10 and 24, 6–7:30 p.m. at the Cossitt Branch. Fiction writers are invited to join this friendly group. Hone your skills with writing exercises, sprints and critiques at semi-monthly sessions. Registration recommended, but drop-ins are always welcome.

Hawk Talk: Wednesday, Sept. 11, 6:30–7:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. John Weeks pays homage to these magnificent raptors and shares interesting facts and identification tips. Registration required. Sponsored by Granby Public Library and Granby Land Trust. Hawk Watch: Saturday, Sept. 14, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. at Blueberry Hill, Granville, Mass. Mid-September features peak migration of broad-winged hawks. Enjoy this companion program to the Hawk Talk with a field trip just over the state line. In optimum conditions, participants will see several hawk species, eagles, vultures and ravens. John Weeks leads the group. Registration required. Chess, Anyone? Thursday, Sept. 12, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m. at the Main Branch. Play the most popular game in the world. Chess fans are invited to friendly, competitive games the second Thursday morning of the month. Registration recommended, but drop-ins are always able to play at least one match. Author Talk wth Tina Angeli: Tuesday, Sept. 17, 6:30–7:30 p.m. at the Cossitt Branch. Author Tina Angeli is a psychic, medium, channel healer and the director of Granby’s S.O.U.L. Center. Hear more about her fascinating life and death experiences. Copies of We are Angels: Positive Transformation Through Defining Moments will be available for purchase after the talk. Registration required. Mostly Makers, for teens and tweens: Wednesday, Sept. 18, 3:30–4:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. Kids 10 and older are welcome at monthly maker sessions where we design, build, mix and tinker. All materials are provided; no fee. Check the library website for featured projects. Registration recommended. Movie Matinee: Tuesday, Sept. 24, 1–3 p.m. at the Main Branch. Beginning Sept. 24, join us the second and fourth Tuesday of the month to enjoy a variety of pre-selected popular movies on the big screen. Please check the library calendar for titles. Registration recommended. Crafters Café—Scarecrow Hat Door Décor: Wednesday, Sept. 25, 6:30–7:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. It’s hands-on seasonal crafting fun for DIYers! All materials provided; no fee. Registration required. Cacti And Succulents For Connecticut Homes: Saturday, Sept. 29; 3–4 p.m. at the Cossitt Branch. UConn horticulturist Matt Opel shares his extensive knowledge about botanicals. Understand the specific care required for these unique plants to thrive indoors. Registration required. Book Groups Something About the Author: (No September meeting) Monday, Oct. 7, 1:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. Featured author is Candice Millard.

Around the World: Monday, Sept. 16, 6:30–7:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. The Star Side of Bird Hill by Naomi Jackson (Barbados) SciFi/Fantasy: Wednesday, Sept. 25, 7–7:45 p.m. at the Main Branch. The Stars are Legion by Kameron Hurley. Coming in October Farmington River Quilt Exhibit: Oct. 1 – Oct. 31, at the Main Branch during library hours. The Farmington River Quilt Project is an inspiring and creative undertaking by dozens of quilters. The culmination of their effort is a 50-foot long quilt portraying 25 locations on the Wild and Scenic Farmington River. Drop by for a self-guided tour of the quilt and learn more about the artists and the locations they chose to depict. Wild And Scenic—Salmon Brook And Lower Farmington River: Thursday, Oct. 3, 6:30–7:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. Learn about the recent federal Wild and Scenic designation granted to local waterways. Environmentalist and Committee Chair Sally Rieger leads the talk and explains what the legislation means to you. Members of Salmon Brook Watershed Association will also be available to answer questions. Sponsored by Granby Public Library and Granby Land Trust.

Programs For Children And Families

Preschool Story Time: Tuesdays, Sept. 10, 17, 24 at 10:30 a.m. at the Main Branch. Preschoolers and a caregiver share stories, songs, finger plays and a craft. Ages 3-5. Drop in. Wee Ones Story Time: Thursdays, Sept. 12, 19, 26 at 10:30 a.m. at the Main Branch. Board books, finger plays, songs and gentle movement for birth to 2 years with caregiver. Drop in. Bedtime Stories for the “I’m-NotTired”: Thursdays, Sept. 12, 19, 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cossitt Branch. Picture books, songs, stories and a craft for ages 4-7 with caregiver. Pajamas encouraged! Drop in. Zumba for Kids: Saturday, Sept. 7, 10–11 a.m. at the Main Branch. Move it to music with instructor Amy Thompson. Boys and girls ages 5-11 are welcome to register.

Yoga for Kids: Saturday, Sept. 21, 10–11 a.m. at the Main Branch. Learn some simple poses. Stretch and relax with instructor Aubrey Schulz. Bring a towel or a yoga mat. For boys and girls ages 5-11. Please register in advance as space is limited. Healthy Eating: Tuesday, Sept. 17, 3:30–4:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. Angel Cruz, manager of Stop & Shop in Granby, will present an interactive program for children about healthy food choices. He’ll read a story and do a “show and tell” with exotic fruits, live lobsters and other exciting foods. Attendees will take home an apple and a goody bag. For ages 5–8. Please register. Minute to Win It: Saturday, Sept. 28, 10:30–11:30 a.m. at the Main Branch. Test your skills and your competitive edge with a variety of instructor-led, timed games. Play against each other or in teams. Limited to 16 participants. For ages 6-12. Please register in advance. Craft Week: Monday–Saturday, Sept. 16–21 at the Main Branch. Drop in anytime during the week and create a fun craft to take home. All materials supplied. Family Movie Night: Wednesdays, Sept. 4, 11, 18, 25 beginning at 6 p.m. at the Main Branch. Drop in and enjoy a family-friendly film, with popcorn provided. All ages. Call for titles. STEAM Lab: Tuesday, Sept. 10, 4–5 p.m. at the Main Branch. Check out our new maker kits! Age 6 and older. No registration needed. Chess Club: Tuesday, Sept. 24, 4–5 p.m. the Main Branch. Challenge your friends. We provide the chess sets and some guidance. Ages 6 and up. Drop in. Pokémon Club: Wednesday, Sept. 18, 4–5 p.m. at the Cossitt Branch. Bring your cards and play a game with a fellow fan. All ages encouraged to drop in. We Love Rainbow Loom! Wednesdays, Sept. 11 and 25, 4–5 p.m. at the Cossitt Branch. Swap design ideas with your friends, learn new techniques! Bring your loom and your stash of bands. Age 6 and older. No registration needed.

East Granby Public Library September Events

Fetch! Me a Story on Saturday, Sept. 7, 12:30 to 2 p.m. A registered therapy dog and handler, trained in the Reading Education Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D.) program, will visit the East Granby Public Library to meet individually with young readers. Established in 1999, R.E.A.D. is the first and foremost program utilizing the companionship of therapy animals to encourage children’s love of books and the reading environment. Open to all, including pre-readers, those with special needs, and those wishing to become comfortable around dogs. To sign up for your 15-minute slot, visit the library or call 860-653-3002. Author Talk on Thursday, Sept. 12, 7 p.m. Steve Rushin, author of Nights in White Castle, picks up where he left off in his acclaimed memoir Sting-Ray Afternoons which brilliantly captures a bygone era and the thrills of new adulthood in the early 80s. Author Talk on Tuesday, Sept. 24, 7 p.m. Sharon Farber, author of Choosing to be a Medium. Afternoon at the Movies, each Wednesday at 1 p.m. Sept. 4: Hotel Mumbai Sept. 11: Gloria Bell Sept. 18: Burn Your Maps Sept. 25: A Dog’s Journey

Page 26 The Granby Drummer

Please visit granby-ct.gov/senior-services or check your Program Guide, Center Life Newsletter, or the Facebook page (@ GranbyCTSeniorCenter) for a complete listing of our health services, support groups, clubs and ongoing activities.

Get Fit Granby—New Classes Added for the Fall!

Lifetime Learning Academy

History and Culture

Fashions and Textiles from the Downton Abbey Era: Friday, Sept. 20, 10 a.m. Presented by Susan Jerome, Collections Manager at the URI Dept. of Textiles. Just in time for the kick-off of the Downton Abbey movie—we will explore the social, technological, and political developments of the early 20th century as reflected in the notable evolution of women’s and men’s clothing. We will look back at what was fashionable, or not, as a way of understanding why people wore what they did. Cost $7 member, $9 non-member. Register by Sept. 10. Survey of the Old Testament: Mondays, Sept. 16–Nov. 4 (no Oct. 14), at 10 a.m. Presented by Bible Teacher, Skip Mission. This 7-week overview of Old Testament history will familiarize you with the key biblical people, events and promises to Israel including Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David and others. Events discussed will include the creation and fall of man, the flood, the Exodus and the 10 Commandments, and the exile and return of Israel. Cost $25 member, $35 non-member. Register by Sept. 9.

Nature

Mount Everest—In Search of Snow Leopards and Adventure: Thursday, Sept. 26, 1 p.m. Presented by Richard Benfield, CCSU Geography Chair. Join Dr. Benfield as he discusses his journey to Mount Everest’s Sagarmatha National Park and his search for the elusive snow leopards. Cost $6 member, $8 non-member. Register by Sept. 19.

Health and Wellness

Tai Ji Quan—Moving for Better Balance: Wednesdays and Fridays, Sept. 25–March 27, 2 p.m. Generously funded by the North Central Area Agency on Aging. This nationally recognized program incorporates elements of Tai Chi that are proven to enhance your stability and walking. This specialized fall prevention program aims to improve range of motion around the ankle and hip joints and lower extremity muscle strength. Limited space available. Free, register by Sept. 11.

The Art of Reiki—Energy Healing and How it Helps: Friday, Sept. 13, 1 p.m. Presented by Tannia Hotchkiss, Reiki Master. Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that promotes healing. You will learn what Reiki is, how it’s performed and what health benefits you can gain. Free, register by Sept. 6.

Personal Development

Ask the Attorney with Kraner and Hess: Wednesday, Sept. 4, by appointment. Specializing in Elder Law. Please call for an appointment for a free consultation.

Familiar Favorites

Women’s Breakfast: Wednesday, Sept. 11, 8:30 a.m. Topic is Today’s Hometown Library, with Amy McCue, Granby’s Director of Library Services. Cost $4. To register call 860-653-9891. Men’s Breakfast: Friday, Sept. 13, 8:30 a.m. Topic is the US Navy Sea Cadet Program, with Duncan Rowles. Cost $2. To register call 860844-5352.

Support And Wellness

Alzheimer’s Support Group: Tuesday, Sept. 10, 10 a.m. Peggy Coburn, McLean Home Care and Hospice. Caring for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming. Learning to cope with the changes in their behavior and understanding how to handle it is sometimes best explained by those who are dealing with a similar situation. Free.

September 2019

The Granby Senior Center has been chosen as one of 20 sites nationally to host the Aging Mastery Program at no cost! The Granby Senior Center will be participating in this national, evidence-based program designed to help millions of baby boomers and older adults take critical steps to improve their wellbeing, add stability to their lives, and strengthen their ties to the community. The 10-week series explores how to repurpose and support the Bonus Years that many boomers and seniors will enjoy and will include lectures, expert speakers, surprises, sharing and creating the kind of life you want. Be a member of the first graduating class from the Granby Senior Center. All those who register for the program will receive a free bag filled with fun gifts and information. Generously funded by the North Central Area Agency on Aging. This program is valued at $150 per person, but is offered at no charge!

Program Info Session

Tuesday, Sept. 10, 1:30 p.m. Come learn more about the Aging Mastery Program, meet some of the instructors, enjoy games, free food and prizes.

Core Curriculum

Nutrition and Hydration: Presented by Sarah Leathers, the Healing Meals Project Balance and Falls Prevention: Presented by Barb Evans from McLean Rehab, MSPT Community Engagement: Presented by Ruthan Wein, former Volunteer Director at Hebrew HealthCare Advanced Directives: Presented by Kraner and Hess, Elder Law Attorneys Financial Fitness: Presented by Jim Hammel, Edward Jones, Financial Advisor Healthy Relationships: Presented by JoAnne Harrison-Becker, MS Gerontology Exercise and You: Presented by Farmington Valley Health District The Importance of Good Sleep: Presented by Farmington Valley Health District Medication Management: Presented by McLean Home Care and Hospice

Graduation Ceremony

Tuesday, Nov. 19, 10 a.m.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Thursdays at noon. Join others, to share friendships, tips and ideas on being a parent again. Free. MS Support Group: Mondays, Sept. 9 and 23, 1 p.m. Self-help group for persons with Multiple Sclerosis and their caregivers. On Grief and Loss: Wednesdays, Sept. 11 and 25, 2:30 p.m. Led by Jane Johnson. Through discussion this non-therapeutic support group will help you in understanding and coping with grief. Find support, information and strategies. Foot Care Clinic with Pedi-Care: Monday, Sept. 16 and Friday, Sept. 27, by appointment. A specially trained nurse will assess feet and lower extremities, trim, file and clean nails. Cost is $29. (Not covered by insurance). Call 860-844-5352 for an appointment. Free Blood Pressure Checks: Every Thursday, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Farmington Valley VNA, held in the Senior Center Community Room. Free Blood Sugar Checks: First Thursday of the month, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Farmington Valley VNA, held in the Senior Center Community Room. Chair Massage with Bev Harris: Tuesdays, Sept. 3 and 17, by appointment. Concentration is on upper and lower back and shoulders. Fifteen minutes is $10.

Drumrolls

Aidan Borsecnik graduated from Emmanuel College with a BA in communications and media studies. Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) named the following to the spring 2019 dean’s list: Vincent Lucca, majoring in mechanical engineering; Connor Field, majoring in mechanical engineering, and Taylor Nowak, majoring in mechanical engineering.

Travel

For extended tours and travel please visit granby-ct.gov.

Senior Van Service and Excursions

The Granby Senior Van provides rides for adults 60 and over to shopping and activities at the Senior Center. Please call 860-844-5353 one week in advance for scheduling.

Shopping and Day Excursions

Please call 860-844-5352 to register for all trips. Holyoke Mall, Friday, Sept. 6, departing at 9:30 a.m. Cost $5 Dine and Drive, Friday, Sept. 13, Russell Inn/ Bread Basket Deli. Cost $5. The Big E: Wednesday, Sept. 18, departing 9 a.m., estimated return 2:30 p.m. The largest fair in New England is back. Visit the Avenue of the States, Storrowton Village and the Better Living Center. Lunch on your own at Storrowton Tavern. Cost $17. Register by Sept. 4. Thimble Islands Cruise, Branford: Friday, Sept. 27, departing 8:30 a.m., estimated return 3:30 p.m. Always a favorite, we will cruise around the islands off Stony Creek. Lunch on your own on the water at the Guilford Mooring Restaurant. Cost $18. Register by Sept. 13.

Olivia Layne Johnson earned a B.A. in public policy and law from Trinity College. Trinity college masters graduates are: Kyle Pilon, M.A. with honors in graduate scholarship in public policy, and Ryan G. Rea, M.A. in public policy. Bryant University recent graduates are: Lindsay Brodeur, BS, business administration, management; Malcolm Mongeau, BS, international business,

The Granby Senior Center offers a variety of affordable exercise classes throughout the week for anyone 25 and older. Only $6/ class for Granby residents when you pay the session price. Intensity levels range from house cat to cheetah. Classes run by session or you can pay a drop-in fee. NEW—Cardio Pilates: This class combines Pilates, hand weights and cardio into one workout that is fun and effective. Includes Pilates core exercises with classic lifting moves and low to no impact cardio bursts adaptable to every fitness level. Instructor, Mellanee Harmon. Choose between Mondays at 4:30 p.m. or, for the early birds, Thursdays at 5:30 a.m. NEW—On the Ball: Thursdays at 4:30 p.m. This class incorporates the use of large stability balls for core and balance training with weighted medicine balls for muscle strengthening and small play balls for isometric muscle building. Instructor, Paula Pirog. NEW—HIIT: Sundays at 7:30 a.m. This high intensity interval training class will incorporate strength and cardiovascular training for a great full body workout that will increase strength and maximize your calorie burn. Instructor, Jennifer Dzielak. Yoga Flow: Mondays at 9:45 a.m. Emphasis is given to finding a balance between flexibility and strength and exploring how, with practice, we can find increased fluidity of movement. Yoga experience is somewhat helpful but not required. Instructor, Mary Fuller. Gentle Movement and Balance: Mondays at 11:15 a.m. This class is designed to gently stretch muscles and joints to promote flexibility. Leg and core strengthening to help with Fall Prevention. Instructor, Paula Pirog. Chair Yoga: Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. Enhanced breathing, seated and standing classic Yoga poses, plus balance training and core strengthening. Guided meditation finishes the class in a calm and relaxing manner. Instructor, Paula Pirog. Yoga: Tuesday at 4 p.m. Strength building sequences, standing and on the mat. Includes balance and Pilates floor work. Instructor, Paula Pirog. Tone-up Tune-up: Wednesdays at 9:45 a.m. A low impact cardiovascular workout with intervals of weight work for upper and lower body strengthening. Does not go to the floor; core training performed seated or standing. Instructor, Mary Fuller. Body Blast: Wednesdays at 4:15 p.m. This fast paced class gives you an all-around great workout. Instructor, Mary Fuller Chi Gong: Fridays at 8:30 a.m. A gentle, low-impact, standing or seated class focusing on flexibility, balance, healing and pain management. Chi Gong is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Instructor, Mary Ellen Mullins Cardio Combo: Fridays at 9:45 a.m. Quicker pace and more aerobics. Instructor, Mary Fuller. Line Dancing: Fridays at 1 p.m. Get a solid hour workout while enjoying many musical forms. Learn steps and sequences, develop balance and your own personal style. Instructor, Jim Gregory.

global supply chain management; Kristen Perry, summa cum laude BS, business administration, global supply chain management, and Danielle Sturgeon, BS honors, business administration degree, management. Eastern Connecticut State University graduates: Kathryn Calnen, general studies degree in environmental earth studies; Sabrina Kopf, BS in psychology.

September 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 27 Mark listens carefully to the guide’s instructions on how to do good. Submitted photos

Waypoints By Mark Fiorentino

Curse of the Pyramid Lake Water Babies Part I Author’s note: what follows is the first of a two-part story about a trip I took this spring to Pyramid Lake outside Sparks, Nevada. The mood changed in an instant, from the usual smiles and light banter to horrified looks and stern warnings. I was working at the Nevada Legislature, having lunch with two colleagues. It was a deadline week to remain alive, bills needed to be out of committee by midnight that Friday. Although the committees don’t always go to midnight, I needed to be available. The Legislature also had a full schedule of proceedings starting early the following Monday. Jennifer and Shelly knew that it would be impracticable for me to go home and that I would be stuck in Nevada that weekend. We were at one of Jennifer’s favorite restaurants, smiles all around. Jennifer asked: “What are you doing this weekend when you’re here by yourself?” “I won’t be here by myself. My friend Dan is driving up and we’re going fishing at Pyramid Lake.” The smile left Jennifer’s face, replaced by a look of genuine concern. “Don’t you know about Pyramid Lake?” “Of course I do,” I said, most of my smile remaining. “It is world renowned for its Lahontan cutthroat trout. People routinely catch fish over fifteen pounds. I’m going after one with my ZEBCO.” “No,” she said, looking both directly at me and through me. “There is something bad about that lake. People die out there every year, and they never find the bodies. Please don’t go.” “That’s nonsense,” I said. “No, really Mark. The lake is cursed.” Shelly had joined the conversation and she looked as concerned as Jennifer. “You shouldn’t go.” “I’ve already paid the guide, so unless the weather turns bad, I’m going.” In unison, the ladies said: “I hope the weather is bad.”

Drumrolls Andrew Migliaccio (GMHS 2016) was named to the American Athletic Conference (AAC) All-Academic Team for 2018-2019 (UConn Football). Jessica Manion graduated from Hofstra University in May 2019, earning a BA in speech-language-hearing sciences. The following students graduated from the University of Rhode Island: Andrea Dewey, BS nursing; Kathy D Kleis, BS secondary education, BA mathematics, and Marcine Nicole Rogers, BS nursing. Trey Madsen, a student at Northern Vermont University in Vermont, was named to the spring 2019 dean’s list. Amanda Webster has earned her BS, marketing management from Western Governors University. Joseph Frenette, a student at Oliver Wolcott Technical High School was awarded a skill point certificate in cabinetmaking at the 2019 SkillsUSA Championships, held in Louisville, Ky.

I thought about their warnings all afternoon. These are two highly educated professionals. Sure, they had both grown up in the area, and I had no doubt they knew about the lake. But a deadly curse? Come on. I did some research that night and learned a number of things about Pyramid Lake: • It’s in the heart of the Pyramid Lake Paiute Reservation. The Paiute tribe regulates all aspects of fishing and recreational activities on the lake. • It has a surface area of approximately 112,000 acres and is 350 feet deep at its deepest point. • It’s a terminal lake, meaning it has an inlet but no true outlet. • There are a number of underwater shelves, caves and other structures that cannot be seen from the surface. • Wind conditions on the lake can be harsh. Wind speed and direction often change suddenly and dramatically. • Because of the wind, the underwater structures and the lack of an outlet, currents on the lake are varied and unpredictable. That explained it. Pyramid Lake is big and deep, with tricky winds and currents. It’s home to a rare species of giant trout, so it attracts fishermen and women from around the world willing to do stupid things for a shot at catching one. No wonder the lake has more than its share of tragedies. I couldn’t wait to lecture Jennifer and Shelly. Except…there is more. The lake is apparently haunted by Water Babies. As the story goes, many years ago, the Paiutes would drown malformed and premature babies in the lake in order to weed out the weak and to keep the tribe strong. The ghosts of these babies can allegedly be heard crying and wailing throughout the lake, especially in the early morning and evening hours, and especially during the spring prime fishing times for Lahontan trout. The Water Babies are a vengeful bunch, reportedly responsible for calamities ranging from equipment malfunctions to boating accidents to disappearances.

Some accounts say that they target fisherman, lurking just below the surface waiting for the opportunity to seize and drown those that get too close to the water. Other accounts are less dramatic, saying that if you hear or see a Water Baby, you will be cursed with bad luck. You might think that after learning all of this I called the guide and cancelled. You would be wrong. Giant trout AND mean-spirited ghosts? Are you kidding me? How could it get any better? I was more excited than ever to fish the lake, but I felt compelled to learn more about the legend. Like all fishermen, I’m superstitious. The last thing I need is even a hint of bad luck. So if there was any truth to the legend, I needed to be knowledgeable. The first thing I wanted to know was whether the Paiutes give any credence to the idea that the lake is cursed. To me, the existence of a curse is far more plausible if the Paiutes believe it. I had read conflicting reports on the Paiutes’ beliefs, so I set out the next day to talk to my friend Steve. Steve is the president and general counsel for a large land and water resource development company. He loves to fish, has extensive knowledge of the area and has negotiated with the Paiute tribe over water rights in the Pyramid Lake basin. “Steve, is Pyramid Lake cursed?” “I can’t say for sure one way or the other. Strange things happen out on the reservation.” Steve laughed a little as he told me this. “Do the Paiutes believe in the curse?” Steve’s expression changed and he said, seriously: “Look, be careful. The Paiutes believe in some crazy sh** [stuff]. Just stick close to your guide and do what he says.” We left early the next morning to meet our guide at a store on the edge of the reservation. The store is a stopping point for most everyone who fishes the lake. It is one of the few places you can buy the required tribe-issued permit. As I paid for my permit, I asked the

clerk if she thought the lake was cursed by Water Babies. Without hesitation, she replied: “Absolutely. When I was a kid, I nearly drowned three separate times. You want some coffee with that permit?” A fisherman in line behind me overheard this and pulled me aside. “I’ve fished the lake for years. Trust me, the Water Babies only get people who are drunk and/or stupid. Pay attention to the conditions, and don’t push it if the wind comes up.” Dan and I walked into the parking lot to find our guide. Glenn was just as he had described over the phone: a big guy with a buzz haircut and a burly black beard. We learned later that Glenn was a retired Military Police officer who served a number of tours in Iraq. He told us he was a “door kicker”—the guy who “kicked in the door as we entered to clear buildings.” He carried himself like a former door kicker, getting right to the point. “If you guys have your permits, let’s get going. We’re twenty minutes from the boat ramp.” With as much confidence and nonchalance as I could muster, I said: “I have two questions to ask. First, I want to catch a Lahontan cutthroat on my ZEBCO. Can you make that happen? And second, how worried do we need to be about these Water Babies?” Glenn’s eyes narrowed. He looked intently at me for what seemed like an uncomfortable amount of time. So long that I thought he might be contemplating faking engine problems so he didn’t have to fish with such a moron. But his expression lightened a little and he said: “You won’t have any problems with the Water Babies as long as you do good and respect the resources the lake has to offer.” He studied me a little longer, then smiled. “What pound test do you have on that ZEBCO?” I smiled in return. “Ten.” He nodded. “That’ll work.” And with that, we got in our vehicles and headed down the road to Pyramid Lake, the rising sun turning the desert floor a pale orange color. I thought to myself: “Do good and respect the resources. That should be easy enough.” Little did I know… Continued next month.

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Page 28 The Granby Drummer

September 2019

Carnival, Business & Craft Expo, Food, Car Show, Pony Rides, Teen Night & Kid's Activities

Sponsored by

Barndoor Hills Rd.

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to East Granby

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acre farm/orchard growing apples, blueberries, peaches,

2D-.';.)6.%47.%3(';.4+%=@%(E';69:49'.%47(4%&'()*+%FG%7(<%4=%=@@.'%()8%H;)%(%-';I.A SALMON BROOK Maple View Farm plums, pears, nectarines, and vegetables. The farm is Pick up a passport at your rst farm and collect a stam stam ampp at each farm visit to be entered in a

V Eopen T Eseasonally, R I N Aoffering R Y Farm H OtoSTable P I cafe, TAice L cream 192 Salmon Brook Street, Granby drawing for farm prizes! You are eligible for prizes just one stam st(including amp; am p; those ingapple in 6 or more andwith a full bakery thecollect famous cider stmapleviewhorsefarm.com stam amps am ps could d win a $100 gi gift ft certifi certificate to use at the Lost Acres Vineyard Thanksgiving Farmers Market.

134 Hungary Road, Granby lyrichillfarm.com

Lyric Hill is a small family farm dedicated to sustainable growing practices. It uses fresh milk from a herd of Alpine dairy goats and a variety of herbs and wild harvested botanicals (grown and collected on the farm) to make soaps and other eco-friendly, farm-based products. The farm store is open year-round. On Open Farm Day, Lyric Hill will offer farm tours, where visitors can meet the farmer and her goats. Guests will be able to tour the studio and see the soap making process, in addition to a felting demonstration. The farms store will be open, and visitors are welcome to browse the handcrafted products for sale.

Clark Farms at Bushy Hill Orchard 29 Bushy Hill Road, Granby Bushyhill.com

Clark Farm at Bushy Hill Orchard in Granby is one of three farms run by the Clark family. Bushy Hill is a 75-

Granby Grange

212 North Granby Road (Route 189), Granby CTstateGrange.org

The Grange is a venerable rural community organization and has been helping farms since 1875. On Open Farm Day, the Grange will offer face painting (donations welcome), yard games, as well as a traditional bean hole lunch.

Sweet Pea Cheese/House of Hayes

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donuts), pick-your-own apples and blueberries. The farm offers a great location for family outings and small events. There are many things to see and do at the farm and farm store: apple cider pressed fresh from the farm, local products, dairy; both goat and cow from the Clarks Griffin Farmstead dairy in East Granby, and flowers from their Goodyear Farm location in Suffield. The Creamery offers local ice cream from Gran-Val Scoop in Granville, Mass. and homemade goat milk gelato (seasonally). On Open Farm Day you will have the opportunity to pick-your-own apples from their 17 varieties, take a wagon ride, and sample those famous homemade apple cider and donuts!

151 East Street, North Granby sweetpeacheese.com

Lost Acres Vineyard

189

# Granb Agricultural Commission and by e Granby

On 50 acres in the center of Granby, Maple View Farm is home to horses, cows, goats, pigs and chickens in addition to the farmers who, for three generations, have lived on and farmed the property. Founded in 1950, the farm has been a dairy, provided pony rides and boarded horses, and today grows food for its neighbors and offers horseback riding lessons and weekly summer sessions to kids. The pastured-based operation provides meat, veggies, eggs and other local products to neighbors through the farm store on the property. The Boglis are committed to taking care of their 50 acres of land in the center of town so it can be farmed by their own children and grandchildren for years to come. This year the Boglis opened The Brewery at Maple View Farm, producing smal-batch craft beer with Connecticut grown ingredients. On Open Farm Day, Farmer Kate will lead tours where you’ll meet all of the animals and walk through the garden to see how everything works together on the farm. There will be a chance to meet resident ponies Jellybean and Missy, then try your hand at the hay bale throwing contest. Come at lunchtime to grill your own farm-raised sausage. The brewery will be open from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., with live music by Erin and Cass starting at 4 p.m.

Garlic Farm

Holcomb Farm CSA

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Wilhelm Farm is a 45.6 acre property that is 75 percent forested. The remaining 25 percent of the land is in hay, pasture, gardens, and farm buildings. The owners, Ann /('0%B=6(4;=)< Wilhelm and Bill Bentley, are the third generation of the 1. Maple Farm Salmon St. Ann Wilhelm familyView to own and 198R steward theseBrook resources. Farm brewery & mixed livestock farm including horses, and Bill are taking a whole-farm perspective as they plan pigs, cows & more for the future, placing emphasis on integrating farming 76 Simsbury Road, West Granby 2. Lyric 134 Hungary Rd. functions. They are systems andHill layering ecosystem All natural, handcraft handcra ed, goatenvironmental milk soaps & more for bath, thegarlicfarmct.com managing their land to produce services The Garlic Farm grows pesticide-free vegetables body & home (wildlife habitat, water and air quality, hydrologic control, and flowers and sells them to the public every day in Clarksequestration) Farm 33 Bushy Bush while H l Rd. Hil and 3.carbon sustainably producing the vintage barn on the farm. Equally well known for its goat cheeseforest & homemade de ggoo ds are food,Apples, timber,peaches, and non-timber products. They tomatoes and its garlic, the farm also grows peppers, investing in several practices, including 4. Granby Grangeagroforestry 212 N. Gr Granby Rd. eggplant, squash, and other summer veggies, along with silvopasture, forestsince farming, Helpin farms Helping 1875 and riparian forest buffers. 1875 onions, leeks and shallots. Their long-term vision is to demonstrate the emergence of On Open Farm Day, visitors can inspect tractors at 5. Sweet Pea Cheese/House of Hayes 151 East St. new paradigms for agricultural and forestry management close range and perch for a moment on one of them Goat & cow cheese, cheese milk, yogurt & corn maze in New England, with the goal that Wilhelm Farm will be for a photo. Farm owner, Gary Cirullo, will lead several Wilhelm 329 North and Granby Rd. of small used6. by outreachFarm professionals owners tours and offer tips on growing garlic at home. Samples Integrative, small-holder agriculture with landholdings as an educational resource. of roasted garlic and peppers will be available. agroforestry & demonstration sites On Open Farm Day, Wilhelm Farm welcomes visitors to Lost Acrestours Vineyard Lostand Acres Rd.with maps enjoy7.self-guided of their80forest farm, Winesfor byaglass & bottle, tastings, plates, provided one-mile trail.wine Experts fromcheese conservation art & will more 111 Simsbury Road, West Granby agencies be on-site to answer questions and provide Granby Pony Club (at Lost Acre Acres Vineyard Vineyard, 80 Lost information. Farmers Ann and Bill invite guests to attend holcombfarm.org Acre Rd.) Youth Acres programduring teaching horse care, riding video presentations developed implementation Holcomb Farm is a town-owned historic property in & mounted of USDA Natural sports Resources Conservation Service West Granby. Today, the property continues as a working Sepe Farm (at LostGrant Acrefocused Acres Vineyard Vineyard, 80 Lost Acres Acre Rd.)farm with fields full of fresh produce and is also a resource Conservation Innovation on Silvopasture Pastured & grain-fed lamb They raisedwill naturally & stress-freeavailable to the public for passive recreation. and other Agroforestry Systems. be available to discuss experiences andLost results. Holcomb Farm is committed to preserving the 8. Losttheir Acres Orchard 130 Acre Rd. Acres Apple & peach orchard, cider mill, bakery, bakery lunch expansive green spaces for which the state is known, served daily and dedicated to offering programs that honor community, 9. The Garlic Farm 76 Simsbury Rd. agriculture and education. The Holcomb Farm CSA brings 80 Lost Acres Road, North Granby Pesticide free garlic, onions, eggplant & other veggies the farming tradition at Holcomb Farm into the 21st lostacresvineyard.com century. All crops are grown without chemicals and with Simsbury Rd. In10. theHolcomb 1700s LostFarm AcresCSA was111 a political no-man’s land Town-owned farm, community supported agriculturea commitment to sustainable agriculture. As part of its known as “the Wedge.” In the early 1800s, the Wedge’s & farm store non-profit mission, Holcomb Farm CSA’s Fresh Access free-spirited, cider-distilling hill farmers populated the program provides a portion of its harvest to social service 11. O’Brien Nursery 40 Well Wells Rd. area. At Lost Acres Vineyard, owners Kevin Riggott agencies in Hartford and Granby. New England’ England’s premiere hosta st sta nursery and Michelle Niedermeyer, continue this tradition with At the CSA Barn on Open Farm Day, visitors can roll 12. Angel Horses 12 Knollwood Ln. grape wine. A former apple orchard, Lost Acres Vineyard up their sleeves and help with the daily harvest before Nonpro Nonprofi providing permanent retirement reclaimed this tland in 2008,aand is now home to five acres sanctuary horses &tomore taking a tour of the farm. Celebrity chef Chris Prosperi of wine grapes, for contributing the agricultural spirit and will offer a cooking demo using CSA produce to prepare 13. Schoolhouse Farm 100 East St. the natural beauty of Granby. Alpacas, pigs, goats, chickens, koi & veggie garden a fresh and delicious dish for guests to sample. On Open Farm Day, the vineyard will have free samples of its Wedge White wine and demonstrations with an oldstyle wine press. Visitors can take a winemaker’s tour of 40 Wells Road Granby, CT the cellar to learn about the winemaking process. The day will conclude with an equestrian vaulting demo by OBrienHosta.com the Copper Hill Vaulting team. Known far and wide for its hosta offerings, O’Brien’s has become a destination nursery for unique shade Granby Pony Club (granby.ponyclub.org) will offer perennials in addition to a wide selection of conifers, pony rides at the vineyard for a small fee, as well as special Japanese maples, and numerous dwarf ginko give demonstrations. offerings. Sepe Farm (sepefarm.com) sheep shearing team— On Open Farm Day, nurseryman John O’Brien puts Peter and Carolyn Sepe, Erin Sepe Pirro, and Jonathan the spotlight on rare peony species and intersectional Pirro—will be at the vineyard to demonstrate fall sheep peonies— a cross of tree peonies and herbaceous shearing. Wool spinning demonstrations and a felting peonies. Their showy seedpods ought to be at their craft for kids will be ongoing throughout the day. peak in early September. Also expect hosta division demos, a tour of the landscaped trails with John O’Brien for fans of the hostas and a self-guided plant quiz for 130 Lost Acres Road, North Granby fun. Discover the Pleasure of Plants, many unique and lostacres.com unusual specimens. Since the 70s, the Wutka family at Lost Acres Orchard Guests will be able to see an observational beehive has grown peaches, apples, quince and pears. In the fall, and attend beekeeping Q and A’s with Jessica you can pick your own apples or buy them already picked. McCue from Mountain Brook Apiary: facebook.com/ They also sell local winter squash, pumpkins and gourds. mountainbrookapiaryct These casual talks will cover The kitchen at the orchard rightly deserves its topics such as how to start beekeeping, pollinator reputation for delicious pies and other baked goods and health and the environment, and why various honeys soups. The retail bakery stays open all year round, with taste different. longer hours during the fall fruit season. Enjoy hot apple crisp on the front porch (with ice cream from the GranVal Scoop), or select something to take home — soup, 12 Knollwood Ln., West Granby quiche, pie, cookies, jams, jellies and more.

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On Open Farm Day, enjoy complimentary wagon rides through the orchard and ongoing talks about the apple and peach harvest. The bakery will be open all day (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.) with pastries, desserts, coffee, pies, jams, jellies and more. Farmhouse favorite lunches will be available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., including hot apple crisp, baked mac and cheese, orchard harvest salads and a baked potato bar.

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The dairy cows at House of Hayes have moo-ved into the future with two state-of-the-art robotic milking units. It has now been over a year since the robots were installed and have been well accepted by the cows. Come see the cows being milked from the viewing room open to the public. Sweet Pea Cheese at the House of Hayes milks a herd of dairy goats and processes milk, yogurt and cheese. Open Farm Day activities at the House of Hayes include self-guided tours of the dairy and cheesemaking facilities. Visitors can enjoy free bite-sized goat cheese samples. The corn maze will also be open, with an admission fee of $8 for adults/$6 for children aged 5 to 13; free for children under 5. The retail store sells pasteurized whole goat and cow milk, along with yogurt, feta cheese and chèvre (goat cheese prepared according to the French tradition).

angelhorses.org

The mission of Angel Horses Inc. is to provide a permanent retirement sanctuary for horses that have been teachers and healers in the therapeutic world. These special horses receive nurturing, companionship and love for the rest of their days, all thanks to the hard work of volunteers and generous donations. Angel Horses is a place where beautiful, generous animals that could otherwise have a terrible end at auctions or slaughterhouses have a peaceful place to live out their lives. Angel horses is also a place where humans come to experience the magic of connecting with such sensitive beings. On Open Farm Day, Angel Horses will offer tours of the farm, giving guests the chance to meet the horses, mini donkeys, goats and sheep that call the farm their home.

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Page 30 The Granby Drummer

Open Farm Day cont’d. from p. 29

Visitors will be able to help groom a horse, meet large animal vet Dr. O’Leary, and see Lisa Roddy demonstrate equine massage.

September 2019

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Schoolhouse Farm

100 East Street, Granby facebook.com/Schoolhouse-Farm-Alpacas

Schoolhouse Farm is a family farm named after the one-room schoolhouse built in 1870 that stood on the property. While the schoolhouse was moved to 208 Salmon Brook Street in 1982 under the care of the Salmon Brook Historical Society, some of the original buildings that accompanied the schoolhouse still remain. The farm’s animals include Huacaya alpacas, Berkshire pigs, goats, chickens and exotic koi fish. Other attractions at Schoolhouse Farm include an expansive vegetable garden and a new vineyard built in 2018. The vineyard features five species of grapes indigenous to the area. On Open Farm Day, there will be free samplings of the farm’s pork (until it runs out) and alpaca-related merchandise for sale including yarn, socks, gloves and scarves. Another attraction at the farm is a wagon tour of the property. There is also a 1946 B John Deere tractor on display for photo opportunities.

S a l m o n B r o o k Ve t e r i n a r y H o s p i t a l

(salmonbrookvets.com) has been caring for farm families and their animals for more than 60 years. Dr. Milkey started the practice in 1953 on his horse farm on Hungary Road. Since that time, the SBVH staff has forged long-lasting client relationships based on progressive medicine and a fundamental concern for the well-being of all animals. Its fully equipped ambulatory trucks allow us to provide both medical and surgical care for animals on the farm. It offers digital x-ray, ultrasound and endoscopy services at the farm as well as in the hospital along with general medical and lameness examinations and a full array of laboratory analysis. The depth of expertise with an eight-doctor practice and compassionate staff allows SBVH to provide the best in veterinary medicine for both farm and companion animals. At Open Farm Day this year you can come by to meet Salmon Brook’s new large animal veterinarian Dr. Marjorie Bruce. You will also be able to see one of the ambulatory trucks and the equipment used to care for farm animals. In the afternoon Dr. Weber will give a presentation on caring for alpaca. The presentation will

cover topics such as common diseases, nutrition, care /(0;<7.8%=)%/('0%1(+>%?.@9.:%(4%=9'%<-=)<='%:=6(4;=)<A and handling. Open Farm Day is sponsored by The Granby Horse Council (granbyhorsecouncilct. The Granby Agricultural Commission and com) invites everyone to come meet its friendly horses on Open Farm Day, and stay for demos on how to groom, tack, and train a horse. There will be games, prizes and a chance to take a picture sitting in a saddle for the youngsters and information on horse road and trail safety for the adults.

by:

Drumrolls Receiving degrees from University of Connecticut this spring were: Benjamin Buchanan, Dennis Cheng, Nick Fersch, Jeffrey Glassman, Prasad Gosavi, Paige Holden, Lizzy Jacobs, Samuel Kilby, Fiona Loschi, Ivana Prats Del Valle, Colton Reardon, Noah Swanson, Alaina Bisson, Lauren Bled-

soe, Chris Coon, Sarah Cusano, Jonah Garcia, Sydney Menard, Kelly-Anne Moffa, Julia Moody, Sam Nguyen, Tyler Powers, Rachel Sullivan, Daniel Walter, Alysa Ferro, Michelle Allen, Grant Dorman, Sarah Fede, Gage Fiorentino, Alyssa Grimaldi and Abby Phillips.

Drummer The Granby

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September 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 31

Historic Footnotes Carol Laun

Archivist, Salmon Brook Historical Society

Myron Graham Esq., Part 3 West Granby Methodist Church Letters Many former ministers of the West Granby Methodist Church wrote to Myron, remembering and thanking him for his help and kindness. William K. Hayes, now a minister in Worcester, Massachusetts, wrote, “We miss our neighbors, the debates, the Prayer Meetings. People live isolated lives here and do not run in and get acquainted as in Granby.” Rev. John Pegg wrote, “Brother Graham, God has gifted you with strong mental powers. I wish I might longer enjoy its discriminating and convincing energy. I did like to hear you debate. Tell Brother Fancher I love to remember his smiling face and his pleasant words.” Newly appointed West Granby minister, J. McBride, wrote to ask Myron if there was any available support, “because owing to ill health, my wife will find it difficult to move as soon as expected. My family consists of four children, which of course will require to be looked after by me.” Kansas Land A Bristol minister, S. C. Cheney, wrote about a Methodist company going to Kansas, “Brother Barns and Mr. Mack have returned from Kansas. Two others left with them. They were fearful that the Shawnee Reserve will be found to cover a part of their claims—could not get lumber—living was poor and high. I have no doubt you will claim enough there, but you may find it difficult to get timber claims such as you would like. You will see some of the company should you visit the “Big Mound” in Kansas.” The “Big Mound” probably refers to a Native American burial mound. The mounds were built by many different cultures over thousands of years. The mound builders lived throughout the American Midwest. There is a burial mound in downtown Kansas City, Kansas, left in place as the streets go around it. Myron also heard from the Office of American Transportation Co. in New York, but written from St. Louis, Missouri. “My advice is for you or your friends is go to Kansas. Lands can be had

of good quality on the line of the N. M. Railroad, 12 miles from St. Louis, for 75 cents per acre. Smaller tracts, 40 and 80 acres, five to six miles back from the railroad, for 12 ½ cents per acre. Good lands on the South P. Railroad can be had for $2.50 per acre, 60 to 100 miles from this City. These lands are sold by the government, the railroad taking every alternate section for building the Railroad. The N. M. Railroad was a subsidiary of the Missouri Pacific Railroad and South P. was the Southern Pacific Railroad. Railroads were very involved with the sale and settlement of western lands. Family Letters Nineteen-year-old Myron received a long letter from his parents, Erastus and Hilpah Graham, in 1832. He was living away from home and working for someone, either on a farm or perhaps in a small factory. He may have learned his trade as a wheelwright in a carriage factory. His father said he would tell of North Canton incidents, since Myron was “in the land of strangers. It has been a general time of health here, no cholera anywhere but Hartford, and few cases there. Political excitement very high, crops generally good.” Erastus also offered some parental advice, “Be careful of what you now enjoy (good health) and be not so engaged in business as to injure or destroy it, but be faithful to your employer, although you are in a land of strangers where vice and wickedness reigns.” The evil and wicked place where poor Myron was dwelling among strangers was West Granby! A quiet village less than ten miles away from his insular parents in North Canton. A brief note in 1843, from E. N. Graham (probably a relative) of Naugatuck, said he was going eeling, that Edwin had arrived and send $8. Many Granby diaries and letters mention going eeling, and people would happily brag that they caught 30 or more eels. Eels were a very popular meal in the 19th century. Myron’s daughter Rosalia was working in Westfield, Massachusetts in 1864 and

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wrote to her father, also calling him Sir. “I like my work. I shall have to give two weeks notice if I leave in order to get my pay. I want to spend Election at home, so you may tell Uncle Harold that if agreeable to his wishes, I will keep house for him after Election, for $2 a week.” Probate The family papers also include Myron Graham’s Probate Record. Although he died in 1868, the probate wasn’t concluded until 1870. His oldest son, Oscar, was administrator. The estate was valued at $1,830.63 with debts of $1,407.61, leaving $432.02 for the heirs. The heirs were his wife Gunelda and children; Oscar, Adelbert, Rosalia and Estelle A. Myron’s estate in today’s dollars would be worth over $36,000 with under $10,000 left for the heirs. That doesn’t seem like much money, but in 1869, there was a “Black Friday” in the United States, when unscrupulous investors Jay Gould and Jim Fisk tried to corner the gold market. The resulting crash may have affected the economy in Connecticut.

However, the widow Gunelda still had the family home to live in, the family farm for her support and sons to work the farm. Myron may not have been a wealthy man, but he was respected in his town, held many responsible town offices and freely contributed his time and talents to his church and his community. All that is known about Myron Graham is found in the letters saved by his descendants, and only a fraction were saved. His character and ability is revealed in the way people wrote to him. There is also a paper trail in the Granby Town Records, Granby Vital Records and the census records. We have no photographs of Myron and Gunelda; he didn’t leave a diary, account books or other writings. Nobody who knew him is alive today. And yet, these documents let us know what kind of a person he was. In this day of endless social media, facebook, emails, tweets, texts and pictures stored in the clouds – what will define the people of the 21st century?

Bill Garrity Joins Board of Directors William Garrity of Simsbury was recently elected to the Board of Directors of Northwest Community Bank. Bill is President of Garrity Asphalt Reclaiming in Bloomfield, CT, the largest milling and reclaiming company in New England. Bill has served on the Board of Asphalt Recycling and Reclaiming and the Board of Utility Contractors Association of Rhode Island. A lifelong resident of Simsbury, Bill graduated from Simsbury High School and attended Central Connecticut State University. He was a selectman in Simsbury for ten years and served on the Simsbury Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Bill and his wife, Ann, reside in West Simsbury and have three married children.

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Page 32 The Granby Drummer

September 2019

Fall activities at the Salmon Brook Historical Society by Mary Zlotnick The Summer Open House Tours will continue every Sunday through Sept. 29 except Sept. 1. The hours are 2 to 4 p.m. The Stitch in Time exhibit located in the Preservation Barn will be dismantled after Sept. 22, so you still have time to view this amazing exhibit. In addition to the treadle sewing machine, there are two additional interactive displays: three stereoscopes and views for visitors to use, and, for a penny, try the scale and get your weight and fortune. The handmade reproduction of our Circa 1830s EightPointed Star Quilt will be on display through Sept. 22. The tour includes the Colton-Hayes Tobacco Barn c. 1914 with many displays depicting Granby life in the 19th and early 20th century. A favorite stop is the one-room Cooley School House c. 1870 that was relocated to the society’s campus in 1980. The Weed-

Enders House c. 1790 houses a Victorian Parlor, a room where donations are accessioned and the museum store where you can find old maps, Granby history books, vintage cards and many more items. An interior hallway leads to the Abijah Rowe House c. 1732. This two-story home is complete with a kitchen, dining room, parlor, office on the ground floor and bedrooms on the upper level. The Antique Gas Engine and Tractor Exhibit will be held on Saturday, Sept. 21. Setup is at 7:30 a.m. with the show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. weather permitting. If you have an antique gas engine or tractor you would like display, please contact Don Rethke, 14 Homewood Rd, E. Hartland, CT 06027, 860-549 6687 and leave message or flushbewithyou@ yahoo.com no later than Sept. 15. The ever popular Fall Flea Market is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 19. Vendor

spaces that measure 20x20 foot are available for $30 if received by Oct. 12 and $40 if received after Oct. 12. Please make checks payable to SBHS and include your name, phone # and return address. Mail your check and information to Dave Laun, 16 Hummingbird Lane, Granby, CT 06035. The society is accepting donations to its sale tent. Drop off items on Tuesdays or Thursdays between 9 a.m. and noon from Oct. 1–17 (no clothing

please). There is free admission and parking. The flea market is held rain or shine. Mrs. Murphy’s donuts will be sold along with hot dogs and chips for lunch. For more information or questions, contact Dave Laun at 860-653-3965 or Todd Vibert at 860-653-9506. The Salmon Brook Historical Society is located at 208 Salmon Brook Street, Granby, CT 06035. Visit its website at salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com

Granby Unico to hold charity golf tournament Sept. 13 Friday, Sept. 13 is the date for this year’s Granby UNICO Charity Golf Tournament, to be held at Tunxis Country Club in Farmington. Cost for players is $135, which includes golf, lunch, dinner, drink tickets, premium open bar reception, raffle and driving range. Golf will be a scramble format with a shotgun start at 11 a.m. Sponsorships and tee signs are available as well. UNICO wishes to thank this year’s Gold sponsor, State Line Propane/Oil, as well as Silver sponsor Windsor Federal Savings Bank. UNICO is the nation’s largest Italian-American service organization. The Granby chapter began in 2003 and has annually provided scholarships and assistance to needy families in the Granby community and many local charities. For information, please contact Bob Marx at 860-653-3663 or 413-977-6305 (bmarx@lmtours.com).

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Salmon Brook Historical Society buildings featured on the open house tours are: From left top: Abijah Rowe house, schoolhouse; bottom: Colton-Hayes tobacco barn, Weed Enders house. Submitted photos

Granby UNICO scholarship recipients recognized

At a recent chapter dinner, Granby scholarship recipients were recognized. From left: Mario Dei Dolori, UNICO scholarship committee chairman, with GMHS graduates Chris Weber, Anthony Spica, Jack DiMeo and UNICO President Joy Marx. Missing is Marile Marzo. The four graduating seniors from Granby Memorial High School were awarded a total of $7,000 from the Granby chapter of UNICO, the nation’s largest Italian-American service organization. Criteria for the awards included academics, extracurricular activities, community participation and Italian heritage. Submitted photo

September 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 33

Public Works Trash holiday: Monday, Sept. 2 – Labor Day is a holiday for Paine’s Inc. All trash pickups will be delayed by one day the week after the holiday. Transfer Station extended hours: The Transfer Station will be open Wednesday mornings from 8 a.m. until noon beginning Wednesday, Sept. 11. The extended hours will be in effect through Wednesday, Nov. 13. Textile recycling: Pink textile bags are picked up during recycling weeks. The bags should be placed next to your barrels. Simple Recycling accepts clothing, shoes, accessories and small household items. If you need additional bags, you can either call Simple Recycling at 866835-5068 or stop by the Granby DPW. Shred-It: A paper shredding event will be held at 52 North Granby Road from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Oct. 5. Proof of Granby residency is required. Documents

are shredded on-site. Plastic bags cannot go into the shredder. Please bring items in paper bags or in containers that can be emptied into the barrels. Recycle CT: Check it out: Do you have questions about what can and cannot go in your recycling bin? Recycle CT is a website designed to answer your questions. Sign on and try the recycling wizard. Simply type in the name of an item and you will be directed on how to dispose of it properly. You can find it at recyclect.com Yard Waste: Please be aware that yard waste should not be placed in your trash or recycling barrels. Yard waste has been banned from curbside trash barrels since 1998. Grass, leaves and brush should either be composted on-site or brought to the Granby Transfer Station. Hazardous Waste: the next hazardous waste collection will be Saturday, Nov. 9.

Join the Granby Cribbage Club By Robert Coughlin Play a fun game created in the 1630s that will sharpen your wits and introduce you to meet new people in the community. The cribbage club meets at the Granby Senior Center Fridays at 1 and 6 p.m. Since its inception in March a variety of players, including an 11-year-old sixth grader, a Granby police officer, and players from Bloomfield, East Granby, Hartland, Simsbury, Windsor, and Windsor Locks attend meetings. A number of the participants are familiar with the game, having learned the game from grandparents or other relatives, while others come to learn. No previous game experience is necessary to participate. Cribbage is a card game created by English poet Sir John Suckling. Based on the English game Noddy, cribbage develops strategy, counting skills, in-

terpersonal skills, and problem solving skills. Points are scored for card combinations that add up to 15, and for pairs, triples, quadruples, runs and flushes. The objective of the game is to be the first player to score a target number of points, typically 61 or 121. Scores are kept on a cribbage board. After suffering a stroke in 1989, I turned to cribbage to help fellow patients and myself to overcome a number of issues related to long-term hospitalization. The game promotes mental sharpness and cognitive improvement. The club is looking to expand its membership and invites anyone interested in playing or learning the game to attend. Two to four player cribbage boards and cards are available. For more information contact club coordinator Robert Coughlin at corgs77@ gmail.com

NOT WANTED: Invasive plants

Granby lands are under attack. Invasive plants are taking over our forests, fields and gardens. We can fight back! What are invasive plants? Invasives are non-native plants that disrupt the natural balance of plant life and cause economic or environmental harm, often by crowding out other plants. Most grow rapidly, disperse widely and flourish in a wide range of conditions. Their growth is not limited by the natural controls that limit other plants’ growth. Some common invasive plants in Granby are Oriental Bittersweet (celastrus orbiculatus), a vine that grows rapidly, strangling shrubs and trees; Multiflora rose (rosa multiflora), takes over open areas, turning fields into impenetrable thorn mazes: Japanese Knotweed (reynoutria japonica), looks like bamboo, almost impossible to control, and Purple Loosestrife (lythrum salicaria), beautiful color in open wetlands that chokes out other plants. Invasives aren’t all bad. Holiday wreaths often include red/orange Bittersweet berries, Multiflora Rose is intoxicatingly sweet in the spring, and some invasives are wildlife habitats. The problem is their rapacious growth and dominance over other plant life over time. What can we do about invasives? There are lots of ways to control inva-

sives, and multiple options for each plant. But it’s not easy. Controlling invasives requires a lot of human effort and repeated effort over time. That’s only fair, since humans introduced most of these plants from their native habitats across the globe. Granby’s Conservation Commission (GCC) is launching a campaign to raise awareness of and take action on invasive plants in our town. It is called NOT WANTED. It includes: • Invasive of the month: how to identify and control one invasive plant each month • Community events to control invasive plants • Expert materials and presentations • Collaboration with other groups The campaign kicks off at Celebrate Granby, September 19–21. We’ll have materials, answers to questions, and ways to get involved. In the meantime, you can contact the GCC at granby-ct.gov/conservation-commission. Here are some useful resources: Connecticut Invasive Plant Working Group (CIPWG): cipwg.uconn.edu/ CIPWG lists and factsheets: cipwg. uconn.edu/invasive_plant_list/ Connecticut Dept of Energy and Environmental Protection Invasive Species page:www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/us/ connecticut

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Page 34 The Granby Drummer

Generosity of Seth and Lucy Holcombe continues to benefit Cossitt Library By Susan Werner and Ken Kuhl If you have driven by the Cossitt Library lately, you will see more windows are being protected by plastic tarp. The Friends of the Cossitt Library have embarked on a multi-phase project to rehabilitate and preserve this magnificent old structure. The seed money for this project comes from a grant awarded to the Friends from the Pomeroy Brace Fund of the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving. You will see from the insert in this issue of the Drummer that the Friends are launching a “Restore Cossitt” campaign to enlist additional support to help them complete this ambitious project. Some may ask what is the PomeroyBrace Fund that is helping create so many wonderful improvements around Granby? The late Seth and Lucy Holcombe’s generosity will forever be felt by many of Granby’s non-profit organizations. Their legacy, in the form of the Pomeroy-Brace Fund at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, allows specified Granby non-profits to apply for grants from the Fund at the Hartford

Foundation for Public Giving each year to meet their organization’s needs. When awarded, such grants can provide initial, or sometimes total, funding for a specific project or need. In the Friends case, the Grant funds are enabling us to address problems with the town-owned library building that are not met by regular town budget monies. The Friends are working closely with Granby’s Director of Library services and Department of Public Works, the newly formed Town-Friends Cossitt Projects Committee, the State Historic Preservation Office and the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation on the multi-phase project to preserve the Cossitt Library building. Presently we are in the Planning and Development stage 1 of the project from which we will learn exactly what the building’s needs are and in what order those needs should be addressed. The second phase will see the actual rehabilitation/preservation process begin. The Friends will also apply for grants from other funders whose mission focuses on the preservation of historical buildings. Many such funders look more favorably on projects where the applying organization also raises project funds on their own to demonstrate community support for the project. Please join us in our efforts to preserve the Cossitt Library, a unique part of Granby’s history. Please complete the form inserted with this issue of the Drummer and help us Restore Cossitt.

Seth and Lucy Holcombe. Submitted photo

September 2019

HEALTH NOTES

By the

Farmington Valley VNA

Opiate addiction: addressing the epidemic Over the last six years much has been done to identify, understand, educate and treat the epidemic of opiate addiction. Initial statistics were startling. In 2012, 282 million opioid prescriptions were dispensed to Americans. From 1999 to 2017, almost 218,000 people died in the United States from overdoses related to prescription opioids. Overdose deaths involving prescription opioids were five times higher in 2017 than in 1999 (CDC.gov). Millions of Americans are prescribed opioids to treat their pain. As a result, prescription misuse, opioid-use disorder, and overdoses have become a growing problem in the United States. You have surgery and after the procedure is completed, you experience pain. Medications are prescribed for pain management for a limited time after the procedure—until the pain ceases. This is often not the case. Prescribed dosages are often stronger than needed, the prescribed number of pills far exceeds what is needed and usage continues far beyond when pain management is needed, developing into an addiction. When opiate prescriptions cannot be refilled, people move to heroin and streetproduced fentanyl as substitutes. The problems multiply and despite all the interventions and preventive measures that have been taken, deaths from inadvertent overdoses continue to rise. Opioid overdose deaths soared from 21,000 in 2010 to nearly 50,000 in 2017 and it is estimated that another 510,000 American lives will be lost in the next decade (NIH, 2017). One of the most alarming realities is that these addictions still stem from initial, medically appropriate, prescribed medications. Regulatory oversight and processes

have been implemented on state and federal levels. Prescribers are acutely aware that prescribing practices are watched carefully in an attempt to prevent overprescribing. Hospital protocols limit the number of pills, dosages, and a set number of refills allowed for take-home medications. Grant monies have funded the development of statewide task force groups. The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services partnered with community providers to offer mass educational seminars to the public (Change the Script Project). People identified as patients suffering from opiate addiction are given take-home Narcan to help prevent overdosing if use continues. Despite the implementation of these control steps, they are not producing the positive improvements necessary. What will it take to impact society’s willingness to address the problem to prevent more deaths over the next decade? If a large part of the problem is a medical prescription, that is where even further changes are needed for significant impact. It is not a simple fix to limit the number of pills per prescription, if in doing so a more potent opiate is prescribed. Overprescribing continues as some surgeons, worried about patient satisfaction, might be giving more potent drugs to compensate for giving fewer pills. It is not just young people who are affected: 4,234 (24.9 percent) of all opioid overdose deaths involve prescribed opioids for individuals aged 45 to 54 (2018 Choices Matter Survey). Managing pain after surgery must become a multifaceted approach. Many over-the-counter non-steroidal antiinflammatory medications such as Advil/ Motrin can be effective if taken at proper

Opiate addiction cont’d. on p. 35

Clean Smelling Helps Selling Scent is the first thing people notice about your home. Have you ever come back from vacation and noticed a strange smell? That may be what your house smells like to visitors (or buyers). When living in our homes, we can become “nose blind”. If you think about it, CLEAN doesn’t have a smell. Some of our recommendations: NO candles! Buyers may not share your taste in scent and might find the odor objectionable. On a safety note, burning candles are not a good idea in an empty house . If you must use air fresheners, stick to light citrus scents. Or, better yet, diffuse lemon, lime or orange essential oils for a light fresh smell. Open windows and let the fresh air in. Add plants as they are natural air purifiers.

Live Simply

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Wait, there’s more! Some of our recommendations for stopping smells at the source: Wash or remove curtains. Replace shower curtains and liners. Empty out and clean the refrigerator and add an open box of baking soda. Clean garbage disposal and all drains; 1 C baking soda followed by 1 C warm vinegar then rinse.

For that musty basement smell, add a dehumidifier. Clean A/C and heating vents and duct work. Replace carpets. Treat yourself to a deep cleaning by a professional! (Use their tools and training.) For any smoke related smells, call in a professional.

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September 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 35

Opiate addiction cont’d. from p. 34

intervals after surgery. Longer-acting anesthesia can carry a patient further after a procedure, negating the need for opiate medications altogether. Patients can be taught relaxation techniques as a distraction, or to relieve anxiety, which leads to a reduced perception of pain. Conversations between physicians and patients must take a more in-depth look at the overall mental health of the patient before surgery to identify strengths and potential risks and to individualize the preventive plan of care. Multiple levels must be addressed to impact this crisis and the start must be to limit the primary source of addiction. To the degree that these problems begin with risky exposure to prescribed potent medications, the medical world must continue to address how they practice. Each of us must take responsibility for our health and that of our children. Educate yourself, ask the right questions, do not be afraid of pain or the need for treatment. You deserve to be pain-free, but how you achieve that may not be as simple as taking prescription pain medications. The risk is real, and the responsibility to seek the best course

of action is up to the patient. Ask why your doctor has chosen a medication, how long you should need it, and what else can you do to help prevent the avoidable but possible dependency that can occur. Ask for alternatives to opioids. Would an overthe-counter pain medication be sufficient? Addiction is a sneaky foe that does not discriminate by age, status, or personal resolve. Know the information, ask for alternatives, and do everything possible to prevent this from being you. Research: National Center for Health Statistics, Health, United States, 2010; National Institute of Health: nihcm.org/ categories/sources-and-burden-of-opioiddeaths; www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/ data/statedeaths.html; Choices Matter Survey nihcm.org/categories/sourcesand-burden-of-opioid-deaths; Change the Script Project www.ctclearinghouse.org/ topics/change-the-script/; www.cdc.gov/ drugoverdose/data/prescribing.html By Nancy A. Scheetz, APRN, B.C, Executive Director of Farmington Valley Visiting Nurse Association

In Memory Of

Stop & Shop patrons are generous! Granby Stop & Shop Manager Angel Cruz knows his customers are a generous bunch. For National Watermelon Day, they donated nearly 100 watermelons to the Waste Not Want Not kitchen. At right, top, Billy Langdon, David Langdon and Dick Caley load them into the bed of a pickup truck for delivery. National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day continued the spirit of giving. Customers filled three shopping carts (bottom, right) with packages of the sweet treats that were then donated to the Waste Not Want Not kitchen and the local food bank. Cruz credits staffer Rosia Kennedy with organizing the donation drives. Submitted photos

FOGPL annual book sale, Sept. 21-23 By Brian Tomasino

Ranicar, James Arthur “Jamie”, III, 51, husband of Deborah A. (Groves) Ranicar, June 22 Romaniello, John F., 77, companion of Connie DiBella, June 29 Dickerson, Lt. Col. Gerald “Jerry” A., 86, husband of Corinne A. (Cushman) Dickerson, June 30 Jones, David Roger, 75, husband of the late Fran Jones and companion of Louella Johnson, July 2 Boock, Thomas W., Jr., 80, husband of the late Carol Boock, July 4 May, Julia (Krawetz), wife of the late Peter J. May, July 17 Bors, Sabrena Marie (Champagne), 48, wife of Philip Bors, Jr., July 21 Beaudry, Fernand, Jr., 50, husband of Lori (Sadosky) Beaudry, July 24 Simpson, John A., 81, husband of Judith (Archambault) Simpson, July 24

Bischoff, Gordon Carl, 70, husband of Florence Bischoff, July 26 Carolan, John “Jack”, 63, husband of Susan (Haywood) Carolan, July 26 G us t a fson , Milton Joh n , Jr., 92, husband of Lydia Elizabeth (Woodmansee) Gustafson, August 6 Woodford, Kay A., 74, wife of Gordon Woodford, August 6 Noack, Raymond August, 85, husband of the late Beatrice (Clark) Noack, August 14 Olson, Paul Henning, Jr., 88, husband of the late Elizabeth (Mattila) Olson, August 14 Doherty, Ryan P., 32, August 2019 Riggott, Keith Martin, 66, husband of Patti (Brusa) Riggott, Aug. 17 Weber, Marjorie E. (Nyack), 95, wife of the late Charles Weber, Aug. 20

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The 37th annual Friends of Granby Public Library (FOGPL) book sale will be held Friday through Sunday, Sept. 21 - 23 at Holcomb Farm, 113 Simsbury Road in West Granby. Thanks to all the donors who have kept volunteers busy throughout the summer collecting, inspecting, and sorting books for the big sale. A lot of time and effort goes into putting this event together. Proceeds from the book sale, the Friends primary fundraising event, support the Granby Public Library with programs, museum passes, books, DVDs and special events. Whether you’re a bargain hunter, book worm, or just like to see what treasure you may find, there is something for everyone. Besides all categories of both

hardcover and softcover books, there are coffee table, vintage, first edition, and autographed books, CDs, DVDs, puzzles, games, learning toys and other book-related items for purchase. The sale starts on Friday, Sept. 21 from 5-8 p.m. An entry fee of $5 gives Friday evening shoppers the first peek and best selection of the sale. Saturday, hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with prices as marked. Sunday hours are 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. On Sunday, there are no set prices, reasonable donations are accepted for however many items you would like to stock up on. For more information on the sale, please see the website at granby-ct.gov and go to the Friends of GPL under the government link, departments/library services

Page 36 The Granby Drummer

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Action Carpet 10 Barrett Builders 23 Beacon Mechanical 30 Beman Hardware 9 Berkshire Hathaway 16 Berkshire Hathaway Nancy Reardon 7 Brignole Bush & Lewis 2 Cahill’s Motors 13 Carmon Funeral Home 31 Carter Robert Painting 30 Chamber of Commerce Celebrate Granby 28 Chiropractic Care 6 Christopher Bryant 21 Coldwell Banker 36 Command Corporation 22 Creative Learning Preschool Center 17 D’Agata Granite & Bronze 9 Dowd Realty 34 First Congregational Church 13 FOGPL Used Book Sale 5 Gary’s Mowing 31 GPS Free Lunch Notice 20 Gran-Val Scoop 14 Gran-Val Scoop Scooptacular 18 Granby Dental-Dr.–Kirschbaum 15 Granby Dental Center–Ungerleider 19 Granby Food Bank 4 Granby Package Store 25 Granby Public Works 6 Granby Village Health 35 Hayes Maze 14 Higleyville Coin 8 Larry’s Construction 22

Lions Club 11 Main Street Door 33 MeadowBrook of Granby 9 Melvin Porter Electrical & Plumbing 18 Northwest Community Bank 31 O.P. Painting 10 O’Brien Nurserymen 17 Old Farms Landscaping 35 Pierce Builders-Meadowgate 13 Route 10 Tire 21 Sanditz Travel Management 2 Santa Realty 8 Sig’s Plumbing & Pump 13 Simsbury Bank 33 Small Town Septic 32 South Congregational Church 14 State Line Oil Propane 22 Strain Family Equestrian Ctr. 35 Subseven 30 Suffield Performing Arts Center 32 Sullivan Hardwood Floors 3 Swim Center at Westminster 8 Thomas Sullivan Morgan Stanley 33 TJ Bark Mulch 27 Troiano Oil Company 33 Two Park Place 3 Valley Brook Community Church 19 Walsh Chiropractic 23 West Granby Meth Church Tag Sale 5 West Granby Methodist Church 11 Westfield Bank 24 Windsor Federal Savings 15

Drumrolls

Jessica Askew

UConn student Jessica Askew received a 2019 Hartford Golf Club Scholarship. Applicants are evaluated based on financial need, academic performance, character recommendations, and other criteria. Mike Spence, a 2017 GMHS grad received the coach’s award for men’s lacrosse at Endicott College. Mike played lacrosse for Granby Youth Lacrosse and for the GMHS Bears. He is a rising junior as a nursing major at Endicott College.

September 2019

Passings Kay A. Woodford, 74, passed away August 6, 2019, after a long illness. She and her husband, Gordon moved to Granby in 1977 to raise their family. Over the years Kay was active in many civic affairs including the Granby 200 and 225 celebrations, the Jaycees and as organist and choir director of the West Granby Methodist Church. Kay served as director of Granby Recreation & Leisure Services for nearly 25 years, retiring in 2011. For the past five years, she has been an integral part of the Drummer production team. She is survived by her husband of 52 years Gordon Woodford, two daughters, Karen Woodford of Granby, Cheryl Woodford and her husband Al Goduti of Tiburon, CA, son Scott Woodford and his wife Joyce, grandchildren Brandon and Amanda, of Feeding Hills, MA, and stepmother Phylis Sears of Shelbourne, NH. A memorial service will be held in November. Donations in her name may be made to the Granby Community Fund, www.granbycommunityfund. com or the Granby Ambulance Association, 1 Pegville Rd, Granby, CT 06035. On Friday, July 26, 2019, Gordon Carl Bischoff passed away at the age of 70. Gordon retired from Westinghouse, where he worked for 41 years. A true volunteer, he was elected to the Granby Board of Education and served as vice chairman on the Board of Finance. In his retirement, he delivered Meals on Wheels and served on the board of directors for Holcomb Farm. He is survived by his wife, Florence, his daughter Melissa and her husband Jon Brett, his son Gregory, his sister Janese Carrick, his special brother-in-law Walter Lagasse and wife Eileen, and many nieces and nephews. Memorial donations may be made to the Gordon C. Bischoff Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Windsor Federal Savings, 250 Broad St., Windsor, CT 06095.

October 2019 deadlines ADS: Wednesday, September 11 noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, leave message. Email: ads@granbydrummer.org. ARTICLES: Monday, September 16 noon Drummer phone: 860-653-9222. Email: editor@granbydrummer.org WORK DATES: September 10-23 Call or email for times.

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